A nurse worked with a patient with major depression who displayed ...

[geodog55]

A nurse worked with a patient with major depression who displayed severely withdrawn behavior and psychomotor retardation. After 3 weeks, the patient did not improve. The nurse is at risk for feelings of:
 
  a. overinvolvement.
  b. guilt and despair.
  c. interest and pleasure.
  d. ineffectiveness and frustration.

Question 2

A patient with depression begins selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant therapy, and priority information is given to the patient and family. This information should include a directive to:
 
  a. avoid exposure to bright sunlight.
  b. report increased suicidal thoughts.
  c. restrict sodium intake to 1 g daily.
  d. maintain a tyramine-free diet.

[dlook33]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Nurses may have expectations for self and patients that are not wholly realistic, especially regarding the patient's progress toward health. Unmet expectations result in feelings of ineffectiveness, anger, or frustration. Nurses rarely become overinvolved with patients with depression because of the patient's resistance. Guilt and despair might be observed when the nurse experiences patient feelings because of empathy. Interest is possible but not the most likely result.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Some evidence indicates that suicidal ideation may worsen at the beginning of antidepressant therapy; thus close monitoring is necessary. Avoiding exposure to bright sunlight and restricting sodium intake are unnecessary. Tyramine restriction is associated with monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) therapy.