08 Psychotic Disorders Free Online FlashCards

What is psychosis?

Psychosis is a group of symptoms involving impaired reality testing; it can have psychiatric, substance-related, medical, or neurologic causes.

Which symptoms are classified as positive symptoms of psychosis?

Hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized speech or behavior.

What should be considered when psychotic symptoms begin suddenly?

Assess promptly for possible intoxication, withdrawal, medication effects, delirium, or other medical causes rather than assuming schizophrenia.

What duration and course distinguish brief psychotic disorder?

Psychotic symptoms last at least 1 day but less than 1 month, followed by return to the person’s prior level of functioning.

How should a nurse assess command hallucinations?

Ask what the voices say, whether they give commands, and whether the person feels able or likely to act on them; assess risk and report imminent danger promptly.

What may coordinated specialty care for first-episode psychosis include?

Care commonly combines antipsychotic medication with psychosocial support; first-episode coordinated specialty care can include psychotherapy, case management, family support, and education or employment help.

What characterizes negative symptoms of psychosis?

Reduced emotional expression, motivation, speech, or social engagement.

What are examples of cognitive symptoms of psychosis?

Difficulties with attention, memory, and planning.

What distinguishes a hallucination?

A hallucination is a perception that occurs without an external stimulus.

What distinguishes a delusion?

A delusion is a strongly held belief that is not supported by evidence.

What duration distinguishes schizophreniform disorder?

Schizophrenia-like symptoms last at least 1 month but less than 6 months.

What duration and course characterize schizophrenia?

Continuous signs of illness last at least 6 months, including an active phase; functioning is often affected.