Author Question: A patient with depression paces, pulls at clothing constantly, and cannot sit for longer than 5 ... (Read 34 times)

olgavictoria · **on:** Jul 11, 2018

A patient with depression paces, pulls at clothing constantly, and cannot sit for longer than 5 minutes. The patient ruminates about being a bad person. Select the most effective nursing intervention.

a. Reassure the patient.
b. Direct the patient to lie down every 2 hours.
c. Ask the patient to assist in a simple, repetitive activity.
d. Seek a prescription for a PRN antipsychotic medication.

Question 2

A patient diagnosed with depression paces and pulls at clothing constantly. The patient cannot sit for longer than 5 minutes, even at meals. How should the nurse document this behavior?

a. Perseveration
b. Hypomanic activity
c. Catatonic excitement
d. Psychomotor agitation

ryrychapman11 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 11, 2018

Answer to Question 1

C
The psychomotor energy of agitation might be channeled into simple, repetitive activities. Providing an activity that is of value to others can help relieve guilt. As for the other options, the patient will be unable to lie down, global reassurance is ineffective, and an antipsychotic medication is not indicated.

Answer to Question 2

D
Psychomotor agitation is marked by increased, purposeless, repetitive motor activity, often performed with a sense of urgency. The description of the patient's behavior is consistent with this definition, rather than any of the other options.