The nurse is caring for a patient with aggressive behavior. The ...

[genevieve1028]

The nurse is caring for a patient with aggressive behavior. The health care provider has ordered a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). The nurse is providing patient education related to the medication when the patient asks,
 
  Why is this being prescribed for me? I'm not depressed. What is the nurse's best response? Select all that apply.
  1. SSRIs are sometimes used to minimize anxiety.
  2. SSRIs are sometimes used to minimize impulsivity.
  3. SSRIs are sometimes used to improve coping skills.
  4. SSRIs increase serotonin levels, decreasing aggression.
  5. SSRIs decrease serotonin levels, decreasing aggression.
  Answer: 1, 2, 4

Question 2

A nurse is conducting a community risk assessment of the relationship between mental health and violence in the community. Which components would it be important for the nurse to include in the assessment? Select all that apply.
 
  1. A method to determine the prevalence of violence within the community
  2. A method to sample a diverse group of individuals across various communities
  3. A method to determine the prevalence of mental disorders within the community
  4. A method to quantify the number of individuals within the community who have mental illness and are currently being treated for the condition.
  5. A method to quantify the number of individuals within the community who have mental illness and are not currently being treated for the condition.

[sokh]

Answer to Question 1

Explanation: Serotonin inhibits both impulsive and predatory aggression. Studies have shown that serotonin levels are decreased in some who have aggressive behavior. SSRIs prevent the reuptake of serotonin, increasing, not decreasing, the serum level of serotonin. SSRIs may minimize anxiety and impulsivity associated with aggression. SSRIs are not used at help patients improve coping skills, although patients whose symptoms improve as a result of pharmacotherapy may be better able to retain teaching and learn new coping skills.

Answer to Question 2

Thanks for your help Worked like a charm.