professor joy mental health final Flashcards
literally the fucking final (43 cards)
What is neuroplasticity, and how does it differ between children and adults?
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize structure/function in response to experience. It is greater in children than adults.
Which brain hemisphere is responsible for nonverbal communication and spatial orientation?
The right hemisphere.
What neurotransmitter is linked to low levels in depression and high levels in mania?
Norepinephrine.
Which lobe integrates visual and somatosensory input (e.g., touch, taste)?
Parietal lobe.
What does an EEG measure?
Electrical activity in the brain (used to detect seizures, brain death).
How does synaptic transmission work?
Electrical impulses trigger the release of chemical neurotransmitters (e.g., dopamine) into the synaptic cleft, which bind to receptor sites like a ‘lock-and-key.’
What is the first-pass effect, and which route avoids it?
Metabolism of oral drugs in the liver/GI tract before reaching systemic circulation. IV administration bypasses it (100% bioavailability).
Why must antacids be spaced 1–2 hours apart from antipsychotics?
Aluminum in antacids reduces absorption of antipsychotics.
Which antipsychotic requires weekly WBC monitoring?
Clozapine (Clozaril) due to risk of agranulocytosis.
Name three extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) of antipsychotics.
Akathisia (restlessness), acute dystonia (muscle spasms), parkinsonism (tremor/rigidity).
What is the therapeutic range for lithium, and when should blood levels be drawn?
0.6–1.2 mEq/L. Check levels 12 hours after the last dose (e.g., if last dose at 10 PM, draw at 10 AM).
What factors increase lithium toxicity risk?
Dehydration, low sodium intake, NSAIDs, or kidney impairment.
What nursing actions are critical during a panic attack?
Stay calm, move patient to a quiet area, avoid teaching, and use short, slow speech.
Why are benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam) used short-term for anxiety?
They work quickly but risk dependence; must taper to avoid withdrawal.
What dietary advice should be given to patients on benzodiazepines?
Avoid caffeine and chocolate (can worsen anxiety) and monitor for sedation.
Which phobia involves fear of spiders?
Arachnophobia.
What symptom of panic disorder mimics a heart attack?
Chest pain (always rule out cardiac causes first with EKG).
What are three predictors of suicide risk?
Previous attempts, access to lethal means (e.g., firearms), and feelings of hopelessness.
Debunk this myth: ‘Talking about suicide puts the idea in someone’s head.’
FALSE. Discussing suicide openly reduces stigma and encourages seeking help.
Why are men at higher risk of completed suicide?
They use more lethal means (e.g., firearms), avoid help-seeking due to stigma, and have higher substance abuse rates.
What score on the Recent Life Changes Questionnaire indicates a major life crisis?
Over 400.
What defines a healthy social network?
Relationships with reciprocity (both parties give/receive support).
Which emotional responses are considered borderline (neither purely positive nor negative)?
Hope, compassion, empathy, and sympathy.
What is serotonin’s role in mood disorders?
Low levels → depression/insomnia; high → mania.
