A nurse is providing education to a group of nursing students about major depressive disorder (MDD). Which of the following statements accurately describes a characteristic of MDD?

MDD is more prevalent in older adults.

MDD is primarily caused by a single factor, such as genetics.

Anhedonia is a term that describes excessive sleeping.

MDD can be diagnosed if only one symptom is present.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

The correct answer is choice a. MDD is more prevalent in older adults.

Choice A rationale:

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is indeed more prevalent in older adults. This demographic often faces unique stressors such as chronic illness, loss of loved ones, and social isolation, which can contribute to higher rates of depression.

Choice B rationale:

MDD is not primarily caused by a single factor. It is a complex disorder with multiple contributing factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, environmental influences, and psychological factors.

Choice C rationale:

Anhedonia refers to the loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, not excessive sleeping. Excessive sleeping is known as hypersomnia.

Choice D rationale:

MDD cannot be diagnosed if only one symptom is present. The diagnosis requires the presence of multiple symptoms, including depressed mood or anhedonia, for at least two weeks.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

"MDD is less severe than dysthymia but lasts for at least 2 years." This statement is incorrect. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is characterized by the presence of a major depressive episode, which can be severe and persistent, lasting for at least two weeks. Dysthymia, on the other hand, is a chronic but milder form of depression that lasts for at least two years, not MDD.

Choice B rationale:

"Dysthymia is characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression." This statement is incorrect. Dysthymia is a chronic mood disorder characterized by a persistent low mood and other depressive symptoms. It does not involve alternating episodes of mania and depression. Alternating episodes of mania and depression are characteristic of bipolar disorder, not dysthymia.

Choice C rationale:

"Unlike MDD, dysthymia does not impair social or occupational functioning." This statement is incorrect. Both Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and dysthymia can significantly impair social, occupational, and other areas of functioning. In fact, dysthymia's chronic nature often leads to long-term impairment in various aspects of an individual's life, similar to MDD.

Choice D rationale:

"Dysthymia is chronic and lasts for at least 2 years, but is less severe than MDD." This statement is accurate. Dysthymia is a chronic form of depression that persists for at least two years. While it may not exhibit the same level of severity as a major depressive episode, its long-term nature can still have a substantial impact on an individual's quality of life. This distinguishes it from MDD, which can have episodic occurrences.

A. Increased interest in activities. B. Weight gain of 3% in a month. C. Excessive guilt and self-blame. D. Insomnia. E. Elevated mood and increased energy.

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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A nurse is providing education to a group of nursing students about major depressive disorder (MDD). Which of the following statements accurately describes a characteristic of MDD?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client asks a nurse about the differences between major depressive disorder (MDD) and dysthymia. Which of the following responses by the nurse is accurate?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

(Select All That Apply): A nurse is assessing a client for major depressive disorder (MDD). Which of the following signs and symptoms are consistent with the clinical presentation of MDD? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["C","D"]

Explanation

(Select All That Apply): A nurse is discussing the psychosocial factors that can affect or be affected by depression with a client. Which of the following factors are considered psychosocial factors related to depression? Select all that apply.

A nurse is discussing the various treatment approaches for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with a client. Which treatment modality involves stimulating the brain electrically or magnetically to induce changes in neuronal activity and neuroplasticity?

(Select All That Apply): A nurse is providing care for a client with suspected major depressive disorder (MDD). Which of the following are risk factors for developing MDD? Select all that apply.

A nurse is providing education to a group of nursing students about major depressive disorder (MDD). Which of the following statements accurately describes a characteristic of MDD?

A client is concerned about the potential side effects of antidepressant medications. Which of the following side effects is commonly associated with antidepressant use?

(Select All That Apply): A nurse is educating a group of clients about the treatment approaches for MDD. Which of the following modalities are considered main treatment options for MDD according to the text? Select all that apply.

A client is experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, guilt, and worthlessness. They also report significant weight loss and insomnia. The nurse suspects the client may have: