Author Question: A depressed patient who is scheduled to receive electroconvulsive therapy this morning asks the ... (Read 102 times)

NguyenJ · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A depressed patient who is scheduled to receive electroconvulsive therapy this morning asks the nurse, How is this treatment supposed to help me? The best reply would be: Electroconvulsive therapy seems to ____________..

a. increase the activity of brain chemicals involved in mood
b. interfere with one's memory of why he's feeling depressed
c. serve as a punishment so you can stop punishing yourself
d. open your mind to learning and trying new ways of coping

Question 2

A 70-year-old woman who was recently widowed expresses a desire to go back to school and finish the degree she started before her children were born. What response is most appropriate?

a. Why would you want to stress yourself at your age?
b. That may not be possible. As you age, your ability to learn decreases.
c. Going back to school will keep you engaged and active.
d. Let's do a cognitive function test to see if you are eligible.

ky860224 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
ECT seems to alter neurotransmitter activity, consistent with the biochemical theory of the cause of depression. The other options distort information from other etiological theories and are not supported by research on the mechanism of action of electroconvulsive therapy.

Answer to Question 2

C
It is important for older adults to stay active and engaged. Encouraging the woman in her pursuit is an appropriate response. The other options may all discourage the client from remaining engaged in society.