A client with a history of major depressive disorder with psychotic features was rescued before jumping off a dam. The client is pacing, picking at the arms, and repeatedly mumbling, "I have to die. You cannot stop me." When the health care provider recommends electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as the initial treatment, the client’s spouse says to the nurse, "I can’t allow such a cruel treatment. Why can’t they just give my spouse medication?" Which is the best response by the nurse?
"Your spouse could die by not receiving this treatment."
"ECT is safe and your spouse will not feel anything."
"It could take up to 3 weeks for medication to become effective."
"Your spouse is very ill and ECT might be the best treatment at this time. What are your concerns about ECT?"
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: While it is true that untreated suicidal depression can be fatal, this response is confrontational and increases fear without addressing the spouse’s concern.
Choice B reason: Assuring the spouse that the client will not feel anything oversimplifies ECT. Though anesthesia prevents pain, this statement dismisses the spouse’s fears and does not encourage discussion.
Choice C reason: While medications do take weeks to be effective, simply giving this fact does not address the emotional concerns and fears about ECT being “cruel.”
Choice D reason: This response acknowledges the seriousness of the illness, explains why ECT may be necessary, and opens dialogue by inviting the spouse to share concerns. It is therapeutic, informative, and supportive, making it the best choice.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Processing auditory information and comprehension is primarily the function of the temporal lobe, not the parietal lobe.
Choice B reason: The parietal lobe is responsible for integrating sensory input such as touch, pain, pressure, and temperature, allowing the brain to form a coherent understanding of the body’s physical state.
Choice C reason: Voluntary muscle movement coordination and balance are functions of the cerebellum and motor cortex, not the parietal lobe.
Choice D reason: Emotions and memory formation are primarily regulated by the limbic system, especially the amygdala and hippocampus, not the parietal lobe.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Monitoring after meals reduces opportunities for purging behaviors such as vomiting or excessive exercise, which are common in bulimia nervosa.
Choice B reason: Electrolyte disturbances, particularly hypokalemia, are common due to vomiting and laxative abuse. Ongoing assessment is critical for patient safety.
Choice C reason: Continuing laxative use perpetuates the disorder and poses health risks such as dehydration and bowel damage. This is contraindicated.
Choice D reason: Food diaries are sometimes used in therapy to help patients increase awareness of eating patterns. Outright prohibition may remove a useful therapeutic tool unless misused.
Choice E reason: Patients with bulimia may attempt to conceal evidence of binge eating. Being attentive to hidden or discarded wrappers is an important part of monitoring.
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