Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Examination (RPNCE) Practice test

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Prepare for the Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Examination. Enhance retention with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering insights and explanations. Ace your exam!

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How should the RPN respond to a client who has started drinking again and missed appointments due to depression?

  1. Discuss with Ms. Jessop how her drinking might be affecting the symptoms of depression

  2. Ask Ms. Jessop to complete the alcohol consumption questionnaire

  3. Inform Ms. Jessop that the drinking might be causing her to miss appointments

  4. Suggest Ms. Jessop schedule an appointment with the physician

The correct answer is: Discuss with Ms. Jessop how her drinking might be affecting the symptoms of depression

The correct answer is that discussing with Ms. Jessop how her drinking might be affecting the symptoms of depression is an appropriate and supportive response. This approach encourages an open dialogue about her struggles with alcohol and depression, allowing her to reflect on the potential connection between the two. By facilitating this conversation, the RPN can help Ms. Jessop understand how her drinking may be exacerbating her mental health issues. It promotes insight into her behavior and encourages her to take personal responsibility for her health, which is a critical aspect of recovery. Addressing this topic sensitively can also foster trust and rapport, essential elements in a therapeutic relationship. This response allows the nurse to guide Ms. Jessop rather than imposing solutions, encouraging ownership of her choices and promoting a more proactive approach to her mental health. The other options, while they might have some merit, do not provide the same level of support and connection. For instance, administering an alcohol consumption questionnaire may provide useful data but does not directly engage Ms. Jessop in a meaningful conversation about her feelings and experiences. Similarly, simply informing her that her drinking could be the reason for missing appointments lacks the empathetic approach necessary for effective communication, possibly leaving her feeling defensive or misunderstood. Suggesting a meeting with a