A patient says, The doctor said I have dysthymic disorder. What ...

[PhilipSeeMore]

A patient says, The doctor said I have dysthymic disorder. What priority assessment data should the nurse obtain to confirm the diagnosis?
 
  a. Changes in appetite and weight
  b. Presence of suicidal ideation
  c. How long symptoms have persisted
  d. Presence of delusions or hallucinations

Question 2

A distinctive characteristic in a patient with antisocial personality disorder is
 
  a. feelings of guilt and remorse.
  b. disregarding the rights of others.
  c. responsiveness to antipsychotics.
  d. responsiveness to kind suggestions.

[elyse44]

Answer to Question 1

C
The major distinguishing factor between major depressive disorder (MDD) and dysthymic disorder is that dysthymic disorder has persisted for 2 years or more, with low mood occurring more than 50 of the time. It is a disease of chronicity, whereas MDD is a disease of severity. Suicidal ideation can be present in any type of depression. Delusions and hallucinations are noted primarily in psychotic depression.

Answer to Question 2

B
Individuals with antisocial personality disorders have no concern for what is right or wrong or for the rights of others. They frequently violate others' rights and frequently break laws in their me first thinking. These individuals exhibit no guilt or remorse, show no improvement from antipsychotics, and walk all over anyone who is not able to set firm limits.