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?
"MDD is less severe than dysthymia but lasts for at least 2 years.".
"Dysthymia is characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression.".
"Unlike MDD, dysthymia does not impair social or occupational functioning.".
"Dysthymia is chronic and lasts for at least 2 years, but is less severe than MDD.".
The Correct Answer is D
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) are characterized by causing significant distress, not mild distress. The distress associated with MDD is usually severe and impairs daily functioning.
Choice B rationale:
While insomnia is a common symptom of major depressive disorder (MDD), it is not necessary for the diagnosis. Other symptoms, such as changes in appetite, psychomotor agitation or retardation, fatigue, and diminished interest or pleasure, can also contribute to the diagnosis.
Choice C rationale:
The correct answer. Symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) must not be due to a medical condition. It's crucial to rule out medical conditions that can mimic depressive symptoms, such as hypothyroidism or certain neurological disorders.
Choice D rationale:
The presence of a manic or hypomanic episode would indicate a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, not major depressive disorder (MDD). Bipolar disorder involves distinct periods of both elevated mood and depressive episodes.
Choice E rationale:
The correct answer. To meet the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD) according to DSM-5, an individual must experience five or more symptoms of depression during a continuous two-week period. These symptoms must include either depressed mood or loss of interest/pleasure. The scenario did not specify all the symptoms, but the persistent feelings of sadness, guilt, worthlessness, weight loss, and insomnia described align with the criteria.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Social support refers to the network of family, friends, and community that provide emotional and practical assistance. Depression can be influenced by inadequate social support, as having a strong support system can buffer against the development and exacerbation of depressive symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Personalization involves attributing external events to oneself, often in a negative manner. While this cognitive distortion is relevant to depression, it is not mentioned in the question stem and does not directly relate to cognitive processes influenced by depression.
Choice C rationale:
Cognitive distortions are irrational and negative thought patterns that are common in depression. These distortions contribute to the maintenance of depressive symptoms. Examples include all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and catastrophizing.
Choice D rationale:
Catastrophizing involves magnifying the negative significance of events. While it can contribute to depressive thought patterns, it is not as central to cognitive processes influenced by depression as cognitive distortions are.
Choice E rationale:
Interpersonal relationships are affected by depression and can also contribute to its development. The question does not focus on the effects of depression on relationships, but rather on the factors that can influence or be influenced by depression.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.