Author Question: During a health history, the nurse is concerned that a patient with depression is at risk for ... (Read 126 times)

yoroshambo · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

During a health history, the nurse is concerned that a patient with depression is at risk for suicide when the patient

1. states that suicide is always an option.
2. describes a previous unsuccessful attempt at suicide by aspirin overdose.
3. states that the prescribed medication is not working and that feelings of depression are worse.
4. requests prescriptions for pain medication and a sleeping aid.
5. expresses interest in meeting with friends more often.

Question 2

A patient with depression does not want to take prescribed medication because of the side effects. What can the nurse suggest to help with medication adherence?

1. Use ice chips to help alleviate dry mouth.
2. Chew gum or use hard candy to help alleviate dry mouth.
3. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash to help alleviate dry mouth.
4. Use dry eye drops to help with eye dryness.
5. Take alcoholic beverages several times a week to help with unpleasant side effects.

Expo · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1,2,3,4
Rationale 1: If a person verbalizes about committing suicide, the talk must be taken seriously.
Rationale 2: A patient who has had a previous suicide attempt is at higher risk for suicide and must be monitored carefully.
Rationale 3: Worsening symptoms of depression must be reported immediately because these may indicate that the drug is not working or that the patient is not compliant with pharmacotherapy.
Rationale 4: All prescription drugs must be monitored because suicidal patients often take overdoses. Therapy with multiple central nervous system depressants is discouraged because these agents produce additive sedation.
Rationale 5: This information would not indicate a worsening of depression or the risk for suicide.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1,2,3,4
Rationale 1: Using ice chips helps to alleviate dry mouth associated with these medications.
Rationale 2: Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy helps to alleviate dry mouth associated with these medications.
Rationale 3: Alcohol-based mouthwash can increase the feeling of dry mouth associated with these medications.
Rationale 4: Dry eye drops help alleviate eye dryness associated with these medications.
Rationale 5: The nurse should not instruct the patient to take any antidepressant medications with alcohol because of the potential for adverse effects.