The nurse is performing an assessment on a client experiencing psychosis. The client states, "I went to the store this morning, and many people wore different shoes. I've always wanted to travel to Paris, but I don't like flying. Maybe I'll go to the beach instead; it's so relaxing."
It would be appropriate for the nurse to categorize these statements as
The nurse is performing an assessment on a client experiencing psychosis. The client states, "I went to the store this morning, and many people wore different shoes. I've always wanted to travel to Paris, but I don't like flying. Maybe I'll go to the beach instead; it's so relaxing."
It would be appropriate for the nurse to categorize these statements as
A. tangential speech.
[67%]
B. grandiose delusions
[11%]
C. circumstantial speech.
[17%]
D. persecutory delusions.
[4%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Psychosocial Integrity
Related Topic
Mental Health Concepts
Item Type
Item Type
Analysis
Explanation
Choice A is correct. Tangential speech is characterized by a response that veers off the original topic, providing loosely related information that is ultimately irrelevant. In this case, the client’s statements jump from thoughts about shoes to travel and preferences without a clear or logical connection between them. This pattern reflects tangentiality rather than a more structured or goal-directed conversation.
Choice B is incorrect. Grandiose delusions involve an inflated sense of self-importance or abilities, which is not evident in this scenario.
Choice C is incorrect. Circumstantial speech would involve excessive details that eventually return to the original point, but the client here does not seem to ever return to a clear, focused point.
Choice D is incorrect. Persecutory delusions would involve beliefs that one is being targeted or persecuted, which is not evident in the statements.
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2 Key Topics
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Additional Info
✓ Tangential speech is characterized by a response that veers off the original topic, providing loosely related information that is ultimately irrelevant.
✓ Circumstantial speech would involve excessive details that eventually return to the original point, but the client here does not seem to ever return to a clear, focused point.
✓ Altered speech patterns are associated with psychosis, mania, and substance intoxication, such as cocaine or methamphetamine.
