A nurse is assessing a client who has schizophrenia. Which of the following findings should the nurse document as positive symptoms of schizophrenia? (Select all that apply.)
A.
Flight of ideas
B.
Decreased motivation
C.
Impaired memory
D.
Delusions of grandeur
E.
Auditory hallucinations
The correct answer and Explanation is :
For a client with schizophrenia, the positive symptoms are those that represent an excess or distortion of normal functioning. Here’s an explanation for each option:
A. Flight of ideas
Flight of ideas refers to a rapid, continuous flow of speech with abrupt changes from one topic to another. This is often observed in mood disorders like mania rather than schizophrenia. In schizophrenia, it may be related to disorganized thinking, but it’s not typically classified as a primary positive symptom.
B. Decreased motivation
Decreased motivation is more aligned with negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Negative symptoms include reduced ability to initiate and sustain planned activities, diminished emotional expression, and lack of interest in social interactions.
C. Impaired memory
Impaired memory is not considered a positive symptom of schizophrenia. Instead, cognitive deficits, including memory issues, are part of the cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia, which can affect overall functioning but are not classified under positive symptoms.
D. Delusions of grandeur
Delusions of grandeur are a classic example of a positive symptom. They involve false beliefs that one has exceptional abilities, wealth, or fame. This type of delusion reflects an over-inflated sense of self-importance.
E. Auditory hallucinations
Auditory hallucinations are another key positive symptom of schizophrenia. These involve hearing voices or sounds that are not present in the environment and are often distressing or disruptive to the client.
In summary, the correct answers are D. Delusions of grandeur and E. Auditory hallucinations. Positive symptoms are characterized by the presence of abnormal experiences or behaviors that are not typically found in the general population. Delusions and hallucinations are primary examples of these symptoms in schizophrenia.