Psychiatric Nursing Review

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to psychiatric nursing for review in preparation for upcoming quizzes.

Benzodiazepines

A class of medications typically prescribed for sedation and anxiety that can impair coordination, especially in older adults.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers in the brain that transmit signals and influence various physiological and psychological processes.

NMS (Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome)

A potentially life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medication characterized by muscle rigidity, fever, autonomic instability, and altered mental status.

EPS (Extrapyramidal Symptoms)

Drug-induced movement disorders that lead to symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

Amygdala

A brain structure involved in the processing of emotions, particularly fear and anxiety.

Frontal Lobe

The part of the brain associated with higher cognitive functions such as decision making, problem solving, and controlling behaviors.

Fidelity

A legal and ethical term referring to loyalty and faithful execution of professional responsibilities.

Veracity

The ethical principle of truthfulness, concerning the obligation to tell the truth and avoid deception.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

A psychological theory that categorizes human needs into a hierarchy, from basic physiological needs to self-actualization.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

A mental health condition characterized by excessive worry about various aspects of life that is not accompanied by low mood or depression.

Defense Mechanisms

Psychological strategies used to cope with reality and maintain self-image; examples include regression, undoing, and projection.

Panic Disorder

An anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and a persistent concern about having additional attacks.

Agoraphobia

An anxiety disorder that involves an intense fear or anxiety about being in situations where escape might be difficult, or help unavailable in the event of a panic attack.

Kubler-Ross Stages of Grief

A model that outlines the stages people go through when dealing with loss: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

General Adaptation Syndrome

The three-stage response of the body to stress, which includes the alarm stage, resistance stage, and exhaustion stage.

MSE Speech Patterns

Variations in speech noted during a mental status examination, including circumstantiality and flight of ideas.

Lithium

A medication used primarily to treat bipolar disorder, requiring careful monitoring of dosage and serum levels.

Myths and Truths of Suicide

Common misconceptions about suicide and the facts that help clarify the realities surrounding it.