A client with cognitive deficits is extremely suicidal and has not responded to antidepressants. The treatment team is considering electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Which client information would impact the feasibility of this treatment option?
Because of the client's cognitive deficits, a signed consent is waived.
Because informed consent is required for ECT, cognitive deficits could preclude this option.
Because the client is extremely suicidal, ECT is an appropriate option.
Because antidepressant medications have been ineffective, ECT is a good alternative.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Informed consent is a critical component of many medical treatments, including ECT. It involves the patient's understanding and agreement to the procedure after being fully informed of the risks, benefits, and alternatives. Cognitive deficits can impair a patient's ability to provide informed consent, but they do not automatically waive the requirement for such consent. In fact, additional safeguards are often put in place to protect the rights of individuals with cognitive impairments.
Choice B reason:
ECT is a medical procedure that requires informed consent due to the potential risks and side effects associated with it. If a client has cognitive deficits severe enough to impact their decision-making capacity, they may not be able to provide informed consent. In such cases, treatment options would need to be reconsidered, and alternative methods of obtaining consent, such as through a legal guardian or a court order, might be necessary.
Choice C reason:
While it is true that ECT is considered an effective treatment for severe depression and suicidality, the decision to use ECT should not be based solely on these criteria². The ability of the client to understand and consent to the treatment is also a crucial factor. Therefore, the extremity of the client's suicidal ideation alone does not make ECT automatically the appropriate option without considering the consent issue.
Choice D reason:
ECT is indeed an alternative treatment when antidepressant medications have been ineffective, especially in cases of severe depression and suicidality². However, the effectiveness of ECT does not negate the need for informed consent. The client's cognitive ability to provide consent remains a determining factor in the feasibility of ECT as a treatment option.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Forgetting people's names can be a symptom of both dementia and delirium, but it is more commonly associated with the progressive cognitive decline seen in dementia.
Choice B reason: Sudden onset of confusion after starting a new medication, such as an antidepressant, is indicative of delirium, which can be triggered by drug interactions or side effects.
Choice C reason: Increased tiredness and sleep could be associated with either condition but are not specific indicators that would distinguish delirium from dementia.
Choice D reason: A loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities is a symptom that can be seen in dementia as part of a gradual decline in engagement and is not specific to delirium.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Demonstrating alternative ways to deal with stress and anxiety is a measurable outcome, as the client can be observed utilizing different coping strategies in response to stressors.
Choice B reason: The ability to verbally express emotional feelings is an important therapeutic goal for clients with somatic symptom disorder, as it can help them articulate emotions rather than expressing them through physical symptoms.

Choice C reason: Identifying the relationship between stress and physical symptoms is a key component of managing somatic symptom disorder, as it helps the client understand how psychological factors can manifest physically.
Choice D reason: Learning to vary their schedule can help the client avoid routines that may contribute to stress, providing a sense of control and flexibility.
Choice E reason: Assuming responsibility for self-care activities is a significant step towards empowerment and self-management, which is essential for long-term treatment success.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
