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 C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Genetic theory suggests that a person's genetic makeup can predispose them to develop depression, but it does not specifically address the role of neurotransmitters in depression. While genetics can contribute to the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD), this choice doesn't focus on the neurotransmitter imbalances.

Choice B rationale:

Neuroendocrine theory pertains to the role of hormones in depression, particularly abnormalities in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. While hormones play a role in mood regulation, this theory does not primarily revolve around neurotransmitter imbalances.

Choice C rationale:

Neurotransmitter theory proposes that an imbalance of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, contributes to the development of major depressive disorder. This theory aligns with the idea that these neurotransmitters are responsible for regulating mood, motivation, reward, cognition, and stress response.

Choice D rationale:

Environmental theory suggests that external factors, such as life events and stressors, contribute to the development of depression. While environment can indeed influence depression, it does not specifically address the neurotransmitter imbalances that are central to this question.

A. Pharmacological interventions. B. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and other somatic therapies. C. Psychotherapeutic interventions. D. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Pharmacological interventions involve the use of medications to treat conditions like Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). This does not involve stimulating the brain electrically or magnetically. While antidepressant medications can have an impact on neuronal activity and neuroplasticity, they are not classified as brain stimulation therapies.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct answer. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a treatment modality that involves passing an electrical current through the brain to induce a controlled seizure. This has been found to be effective in cases of severe depression where other treatments have not worked. Other somatic therapies might include repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), both of which involve modulating brain activity through electrical or magnetic means.

Choice C rationale:

Psychotherapeutic interventions involve talking therapies aimed at addressing psychological and emotional issues. These therapies do not directly involve electrical or magnetic stimulation of the brain. While they can certainly lead to changes in neuronal activity and neuroplasticity, they are not the primary modalities for brain stimulation.

Choice D rationale:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a specific type of psychotherapeutic intervention that focuses on changing thought patterns and behaviors. While CBT can lead to changes in brain activity and neuroplasticity, it does not involve direct brain stimulation through electrical or magnetic means like ECT or rTMS.

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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?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client who has been experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. The client denies any history of manic episodes. Which of the following conditions should the nurse consider as a possible differential diagnosis for this client?

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?

(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 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 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 client is wondering about the genetic factors that contribute to depression. What is the relationship between genetic factors and depression according to the text?

A client wants to understand the factors that contribute to the development of depression. Which of the following factors are mentioned in the text as potential contributors to depression?

(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.