Your patient has a diagnosis of major depressive disorder and has been started on sertraline (Zoloft) 50mg daily. After taking the medication for 3 days, the patient says, "I don't think the medicine is working. I don't want to take it any longer." What is your best response?
"I'll let your doctor know, and he may order a different medication."
"These medications usually take a few weeks to bring about an improvement in your symptoms."
"It is important to eat a more balanced diet to help this medication work."
"The important thing now is getting more involved in patient activities."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: While it's important to communicate with the doctor, this does not provide immediate reassurance or information about the medication's typical onset of action.
Choice B reason: This is the most accurate response as SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft) typically take several weeks to show full effects, and it's important for patients to understand this.
Choice C reason: While a balanced diet is important, it is not directly related to the effectiveness of sertraline in the short term.
Choice D reason: Encouraging involvement in activities is beneficial, but it does not address the patient's concern about the medication's effectiveness.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This response is a closed-ended question that might not encourage further discussion or reveal the underlying issues.
Choice B reason: This confrontational approach could make the patient defensive and is not conducive to building a therapeutic relationship.
Choice C reason: While encouraging the patient to eat is important, this directive does not address the patient's feelings or concerns.
Choice D reason: Asking an open-ended question invites the patient to share more about their feelings and can lead to a better understanding of their lack of appetite.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This approach is non-intrusive and allows the patient to become accustomed to the presence of others without feeling pressured to interact, which can be beneficial for someone with major depressive disorder who is isolating themselves.
Choice B reason: While group therapy is important, insisting that the patient comes with you when they are isolating themselves might be too forceful and could lead to increased resistance or distress.
Choice C reason: Introducing the patient to others is a good step, but it should not be the first approach if the patient is actively isolating and may not be ready for social interaction.
Choice D reason: Asking "What are you thinking about?" can be a good way to start a conversation, but it might be too direct for a patient who is not yet ready to open up and could feel invasive.
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