A nurse is conducting a mental health assessment on a client. The client reports feeling extremely fatigued, having difficulty concentrating, and having thoughts of worthlessness. The nurse recognizes these as:
Signs of normal bereavement.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Indicators of substance-induced mood disorder.
Criteria for diagnosing MDD according to DSM-5.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Signs of normal bereavement. Bereavement refers to the period of grief and mourning after the loss of a loved one. While fatigue and feelings of worthlessness can be experienced during bereavement, difficulty concentrating is not a typical sign. Additionally, bereavement-related symptoms typically improve over time as the individual processes their loss. The combination of extreme fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of worthlessness suggests a more severe and persistent condition than normal bereavement.
Choice B rationale:
Symptoms of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating episodes of depression and mania (or hypomania). The client's symptoms of extreme fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of worthlessness are primarily indicative of a depressive episode, which is only one aspect of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder requires the presence of manic or hypomanic episodes, which are not mentioned in the client's presentation.
Choice C rationale:
Indicators of substance-induced mood disorder. Substance-induced mood disorder occurs as a result of substance use or withdrawal and involves changes in mood and affect. While substances can lead to symptoms similar to depression, the combination of symptoms presented by the client (fatigue, difficulty concentrating, thoughts of worthlessness) is more indicative of a primary mood disorder rather than one directly caused by substance use.
Choice D rationale:
Criteria for diagnosing MDD according to DSM-5. The client's symptoms of extreme fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of worthlessness align with the criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These criteria include the presence of specific symptoms for a specified duration, causing significant impairment in functioning. The symptoms should not be better explained by other conditions or substances. In this case, the client's presentation closely matches the criteria for diagnosing MDD.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Genetic predisposition refers to a person's susceptibility to certain conditions based on their genetic makeup. While genetics can play a role in predisposing someone to depression, it is not considered a psychosocial factor. Genetic factors are biological in nature and do not directly involve social and psychological influences.
Choice B rationale:
The role of stress and life events is a significant psychosocial factor related to depression. Stressful life events, such as trauma, loss, or major life changes, can trigger or exacerbate depressive episodes in susceptible individuals. The interaction between these external stressors and an individual's psychological responses is a key aspect of psychosocial factors.
Choice C rationale:
Interpersonal relationships are another important psychosocial factor linked to depression. Poor interpersonal relationships, social isolation, and conflicts with friends or family can contribute to feelings of loneliness and despair, increasing the risk of developing depression.
Choice D rationale:
Cognitive factors, including negative thought patterns and distorted thinking, are considered psychosocial contributors to depression. Cognitive theories of depression emphasize how an individual's thought processes, self-perception, and interpretation of events can influence their emotional state. Dysfunctional thought patterns, such as excessive self-criticism or hopelessness, can contribute to the development and maintenance of depressive symptoms.
Choice E rationale:
Neurotransmitter imbalances are not psychosocial factors. They are more related to the biological underpinnings of depression rather than the social and psychological influences explored in psychosocial factors.
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Increased interest in activities is not consistent with the clinical presentation of MDD. In fact, a hallmark symptom of MDD is anhedonia, which involves a reduced interest or pleasure in most activities.
Choice B rationale:
Weight gain is not typically associated with MDD. In contrast, significant changes in appetite and weight loss are more common symptoms, often accompanied by feelings of worthlessness or guilt related to body image.
Choice C rationale:
Excessive guilt and self-blame are common cognitive and emotional symptoms of MDD. Individuals with MDD tend to have a negative self-perception and may blame themselves for their difficulties.
Choice D rationale:
Insomnia, or difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, is a common sleep disturbance associated with MDD. Sleep problems can exacerbate the symptoms of depression and impact overall well-being.
Choice E rationale:
Elevated mood and increased energy are actually more indicative of conditions like bipolar disorder or manic episodes, where there are distinct periods of abnormally elevated mood, known as mania or hypomania.
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