Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
11th Edition
Author(s)Karyn Morgan
TEST BANK
Question 1
A nursing student asks why two individuals exposed to the
same stressor may respond differently. Which response by the
psychiatric nurse is most appropriate?
A. “Stress responses are determined only by genetic
predisposition.”
B. “Stress is influenced by the individual’s perception of the
,event.”
C. “People react the same way once stress becomes severe.”
D. “Stress occurs only when the event is life-threatening.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
Stress adaptation is influenced by how an individual perceives
and interprets an event. Personal appraisal determines
whether the stressor is viewed as threatening, challenging, or
manageable. Genetic predisposition may influence stress
responses but is not the sole determinant. Individuals do not
respond identically to stressors, and stress can occur even in
non–life-threatening situations.
Source:
Davis Advantage for Townsend's Psychiatric Mental Health
Nursing, 11th Edition — Chapter 1: The Concept of Stress
Adaptation
Question 2
A patient states, “I’ve had headaches and stomach pain ever
since I lost my job.” Which concept of stress is best illustrated
by this statement?
A. Stress as a biological response
B. Stress as a developmental milestone
C. Stress as a cultural expectation
D. Stress as a moral conflict
,Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
Stress as a biological response involves physiological reactions
to stressors, including headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances,
and autonomic nervous system activation. The patient’s
symptoms reflect the body’s physiological adaptation to stress.
The other options are not consistent with the scenario
presented.
Source:
Davis Advantage for Townsend's Psychiatric Mental Health
Nursing, 11th Edition — Chapter 1: The Concept of Stress
Adaptation
Question 3
A nurse is assessing a patient experiencing chronic stress.
Which finding would the nurse identify as an indicator of
maladaptive stress response?
A. Seeking emotional support from family
B. Using relaxation breathing techniques
C. Increasing alcohol consumption to cope
D. Participating in regular exercise
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Increasing alcohol use to cope with stress is a maladaptive
, coping mechanism that may worsen psychological and physical
functioning. Seeking support, relaxation techniques, and
exercise are examples of adaptive stress-management
strategies that promote healthy coping.
Source:
Davis Advantage for Townsend's Psychiatric Mental Health
Nursing, 11th Edition — Chapter 1: The Concept of Stress
Adaptation
Question 4
A patient says, “I feel overwhelmed because I can’t control
what is happening in my life.” Which nursing response
demonstrates therapeutic communication?
A. “Everyone feels stressed sometimes.”
B. “You should focus on the positive aspects of life.”
C. “Tell me more about what feels out of control right now.”
D. “You need to stop worrying so much.”
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Inviting the patient to elaborate promotes therapeutic
communication and encourages expression of feelings. The
other responses minimize the patient’s experience, offer false
reassurance, or discourage open communication.