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    ATI PN Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023 II

    A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has schizophrenia.The nurse should identify which of the following manifestations as an indication of relapse?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Choice A rationaleIncreased sleep can sometimes be associated with depression, which can co-occur with schizophrenia, but it is not a primary indicator of relapse of psychotic symptoms. Relapse typically involves an exacerbation of positive symptoms like hallucinations or delusions.Choice B rationaleObsession with hygiene rituals is more commonly associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which can be a comorbid condition in individuals with schizophrenia but is not a direct indicator of a psychotic relapse. While changes in behavior should be noted, this specific manifestation is less indicative of worsening schizophrenia.Choice C rationaleExcessive appetite can be a side effect of certain antipsychotic medications or related to other factors, but it is not a core manifestation of a relapse of schizophrenia. Changes in appetite can occur, but increased suspiciousness is a more direct indicator of worsening psychotic symptoms.Choice D rationaleIncreased suspiciousness, paranoia, and mistrust are hallmark negative symptoms and often early indicators of a psychotic relapse in individuals with schizophrenia. Heightened suspicion can precede the return of more overt psychotic symptoms like hallucinations or delusions, signaling a destabilization of their mental state.

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