Past CMS Psych Things to Remember

What is catatonia associated with?

It is associated with schizophrenia.

What medication can be switched to for better management of sedation in patients taking antipsychotics?

Switch to aripiprazole, as it best relieves sedation.

Why should ziprasidone be used before clozapine in treating schizophrenia?

Ziprasidone is safer than clozapine and helps avoid severe side effects.

What cognitive deficits are produced by schizophrenia?

Decline in attention, working memory, and executive function.

What describes panic disorder associated with multiple episodes of palpitations?

Recurring panic attacks, especially if they begin before a stressful event.

What are intrusive thoughts and excessive actions characteristic of?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

What is a key feature of atypical depression?

Situational improvement in mood.

What is the best treatment method for acute mania?

Use atypical antipsychotics as they are also mood stabilizers.

What should be done if someone with Major Depressive Disorder shows signs of nutritional compromise?

They need to be admitted inpatient.

What is a prominent feature of mania?

Rapid speech.

How does anorexia differ from bulimia regarding BMI?

Anorexics typically have a low BMI.

What physical signs characterize fetal alcohol syndrome?

Narrow philtrum and thin upper lip, along with intellectual disability.

What is a significant feature in ADHD?

Impulsivity.

How is serotonin related to antisocial personality disorder?

Serotonin levels are low.

What characterizes adjustment disorder related to emotional dysregulation?

Symptoms arise within 3 months of a stressor.

What is the proper management for acute pain in a patient on methadone?

Continue methadone and add a patient-controlled analgesia schedule.

What medication is used to treat moderate to severe alcohol use disorder?

Naltrexone.

What are symptoms of multiple sclerosis?

Blurry vision, periventricular white matter plaques, and memory impairment.

What protein is associated with Alzheimer’s disease?

Tau protein.

What effect does caffeine withdrawal have on the body?

It can cause severe diffuse headaches.

How is restless leg syndrome treated?

With dopamine agonists.

What is the treatment for acute dystonia?

Anticholinergics like diphenhydramine.

What neurological condition is indicated by alcohol abuse with memory issues?

Korsakoff syndrome.

Why is it important to discuss care preferences in cognitively impaired patients?

Cognitive impairment does not rule out the need to discuss care preferences.

What is the best approach to deliver bad news to a patient?

Schedule a follow-up appointment to allow time for processing.

What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) characterized by?

Worrying more often than not and inability to sleep for more than 6 months.

What indicates respiratory failure in an opioid overdose?

Respiration will be very low.

What should be considered when alcohol consumption is at safe levels for pancreatitis?

Think more about valproic acid as a potential cause.

What is the focus of hospice care?

Providing comfort and managing pain through medication.

What should be encouraged in cases of lithium-induced nephrogenic DI?

Encourage continued water intake to prevent hypernatremia.

What defines female orgasmic disorder?

Inability to achieve orgasm due to stress and previous trauma.

What is a potential consequence of dopamine agonists in Parkinson’s treatment?

They may open the door for psychosis.

What characterizes delirium?

Fluctuations in mood and acute changes in mental status.

What is associated with Huntington’s disease?

It is a genetic disorder.

What feedback do teenagers often dismiss regarding consequences?

They believe they are invulnerable.

What is a risk associated with the use of meperidine?

It can lead to delirium.

What causes sexual dysfunction and gynecomastia in patients?

Hyperprolactinemia from dopamine antagonists.

What diagnostic tool should be used for sleep apnea?

Polysomnography.

What behavioral signs are characteristic of hypomania?

Pressured speech, intense eye contact, and impulsive behavior.

What are signs of acute mania?

Loud and rapid speech, grandiose self-image, and irresponsibility.

What typically includes hallucinations and is an acute change in mental status?

Delirium.

What distinguishes delusional disorder from other disorders?

Delusions without hallucinations or mood changes.