HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

A client diagnosed with Schizophrenia - Paranoid Type exhibits hostility when approached. This behavior most likely indicates:

1. Feelings of increasing anxiety related to paranoia

2. Social isolation related to altered thought processes

3. Sensory perceptual alteration related to withdrawal from environment

4. Impaired verbal communication related to impaired judgment

The correct answer is: Social isolation related to altered thought processes

The behavior of hostility exhibited by a client diagnosed with Schizophrenia - Paranoid Type can often be linked to feelings of social isolation stemming from altered thought processes. Individuals with this condition may experience a distorted perception of reality, leading to mistrust and withdrawal from social interactions. This withdrawal can result in defensive behaviors, such as hostility, especially when they perceive a threat from others. When a person feels socially isolated, they may struggle to engage appropriately in social situations, which can heighten their paranoia and lead to aggressive responses to perceived intrusions or confrontations. This reflects the individual's struggle to navigate social environments and forms part of the broader pattern of symptoms associated with this subtype of schizophrenia. Understanding these dynamics helps in providing appropriate care and interventions aimed at re-engaging the client in social relationships and addressing the underlying paranoia that fuels such hostility.