A patient diagnosed with major depression began taking ...

[yoooooman]

A patient diagnosed with major depression began taking escitalopram (Lexapro) 5 days ago. The patient now says, This medicine isn't working. The nurse's best intervention would be to:
 
  a. discuss with the health care provider the need to increase the dose.
  b. reassure the patient that the medication will be effective soon.
  c. explain the time lag before antidepressants relieve symptoms.
  d. critically assess the patient for symptoms of improvement.

Question 2

A patient diagnosed with depression repeatedly tells staff, I have cancer. It's my punishment for being a bad person. Diagnostic tests reveal no cancer. Select the priority nursing diagnosis.
 
  a. Powerlessness
  b. Risk for suicide
  c. Stress overload
  d. Spiritual distress

[lorealeza]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant. One to three weeks of treatment is usually necessary before symptom relief occurs. This information is important to share with patients.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
A patient diagnosed with depression who feels so worthless as to believe cancer is deserved is at risk for suicide. Safety concerns take priority over the other diagnoses listed.

[yoooooman]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[aruss1303]

YES! Correct, THANKS for helping me on my review