An 83-year-old veteran with PTSD begins experiencing increased intrusive memories after moving into assisted living. Which statement best explains this presentation?

During an initial psychotherapy session, an older adult asks, “I’ve never been to therapy before. What exactly happens here?” According to best practice, the PMHNP should FIRST:

A 75-year-old man with moderate Alzheimer’s disease becomes increasingly agitated every evening. He occasionally yells at staff but has not attempted to harm himself or others. What is the best initial intervention?

A 16-year-old male is referred for psychiatric evaluation because of declining grades, social withdrawal, and increasing difficulty completing daily hygiene. His parents report that over the past year, he has become emotionally flat and recently admitted to hearing voices commenting on his behavior. Symptoms have persisted for 8 months. Which diagnosis is most consistent with this presentation?

An 82-year-old woman is brought to the emergency department by her daughter because of sudden confusion that began this morning. She was functioning independently yesterday. Assessment reveals fluctuating attention, disorganized thinking, visual hallucinations, and difficulty maintaining conversation. Her temperature is 101.8°F (38.8°C), and urinalysis is positive for leukocyte esterase. What is the PMHNP’s priority intervention?

Which pediatric anxiety disorder most commonly presents with somatic complaints such as headaches and abdominal pain?

An 80-year-old develops severe anxiety after starting prednisone. The PMHNP should FIRST:

A 73-year-old woman is hospitalized after hip replacement surgery. On postoperative day two, she became severely agitated and attempted to remove her IV. She is disoriented and unable to sustain attention despite repeated questioning. Nonpharmacologic interventions have been unsuccessful. Which medication is most appropriate if medication becomes necessary?

A PMHNP is preparing to begin cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with an 81-year-old patient who has mild hearing loss and mild cognitive impairment. Which modification is most appropriate?

A 16-year-old presents with panic attacks occurring unexpectedly several times per week. Medical workup is negative. What is the most appropriate long-term treatment?