A nurse is preparing to discharge a client who has depression. Which of the following information should the nurse plan to reinforce with the client regarding relapse?
Use systematic desensitization to help prevent relapse.
Your antidepressant medication will make you feel better in a few days.
You should identify how you react to stressful events.
Try snapping a rubber band on your wrist when depressive thoughts occur.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Systematic desensitization is a technique primarily used for anxiety disorders and phobias, rather than for preventing relapse in depression. This method involves gradually exposing a person to anxiety-provoking stimuli while teaching them relaxation techniques to cope with the anxiety. While it is an effective therapeutic tool, it is not specifically aimed at preventing relapse in depression. Instead, it is more suitable for conditions where anxiety and avoidance behaviors are predominant issues.
Choice B reason: Antidepressant medications typically take several weeks to begin showing their full therapeutic effects, not just a few days. Telling a client that they will feel better in a few days can lead to unrealistic expectations and potential disappointment if the medication does not work immediately. Clients should be informed that it might take a few weeks to notice significant improvements and that they should continue taking the medication as prescribed and follow up with their healthcare provider.
Choice C reason: Identifying how one reacts to stressful events is crucial in managing depression and preventing relapse. Stressful events can trigger or exacerbate depressive episodes. By understanding their responses to stress, clients can develop coping strategies and seek appropriate support when needed. This proactive approach helps in recognizing early signs of relapse and implementing measures to mitigate the impact of stress on their mental health. Therefore, this advice is practical and directly applicable to preventing depression relapse.
Choice D reason: Snapping a rubber band on the wrist as a way to interrupt depressive thoughts is a behavioral technique that might work for some individuals in the short term. However, it is not a comprehensive strategy for preventing depression relapse. This method is more of a distraction technique and does not address the underlying issues or equip the client with long-term coping strategies. Effective relapse prevention in depression involves a more holistic approach, including cognitive-behavioral techniques, medication adherence, and lifestyle changes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Encouraging the client to participate in a board game may be helpful for social interaction and engagement, but it is not the most appropriate intervention to address hostile verbal outbursts. Engaging in activities like board games can be beneficial for overall mental health, but the immediate issue of managing aggression requires more direct strategies.
Choice B reason: Touching the client on the shoulder to console them is not advisable in this situation. Physical contact can be misinterpreted by clients with schizophrenia and may escalate their agitation or aggression. It is important to maintain personal boundaries and use verbal communication to convey support and reassurance.
Choice C reason: Bringing a security guard whenever approaching the client can create an atmosphere of fear and mistrust. It is important to establish a therapeutic relationship built on trust and respect. While safety is a priority, using calm communication and de-escalation techniques is preferable to prevent hostile behavior.
Choice D reason: Using a calm, clear tone when speaking to the client is an effective intervention for managing hostile verbal outbursts. Calm communication helps de-escalate the situation and prevents further agitation. It shows the client that the nurse is in control and can provide a stable, reassuring presence, which is essential for building trust and maintaining a therapeutic environment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Extreme fatigue for several weeks is not a common side effect associated with the implantation of a vagus nerve stimulator. While patients may experience some discomfort and mild fatigue immediately following surgery, it is typically short-term. Prolonged extreme fatigue is not a standard outcome and would warrant further medical evaluation if it occurs.
Choice B reason: Hoarseness or changes in voice is a common side effect after the implantation of a vagus nerve stimulator. The stimulator affects the vagus nerve, which is close to the vocal cords. As a result, stimulation can lead to changes in voice, including hoarseness. Patients should be informed of this potential side effect so they are not alarmed if it occurs.
Choice C reason: It is unrealistic to expect depression to improve within 72 hours after the implantation of a vagus nerve stimulator. While this treatment can be effective for certain individuals with treatment-resistant depression, it generally takes several weeks to months for patients to notice significant improvement in their symptoms. Setting realistic expectations is crucial for patient adherence and satisfaction with the treatment.
Choice D reason: Patients should not assume they can schedule an appointment at any time to turn off the device. The vagus nerve stimulator is implanted as part of a treatment plan, and any changes to its operation should be thoroughly discussed with and managed by the healthcare provider. Turning off the device without proper consultation can impact the effectiveness of the treatment and the patient’s overall health.
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