A nurse at a primary care clinic is collecting data on a client for manifestations of depression. Which of the following client statements should the nurse identify as being consistent with depression?
"Lately, I feel like I am more alert than usual and can focus better."
"I can't sit still. I feel like I need to be doing things around the house."
"When I went to my provider, they told me I have high blood pressure."
"I can't get my mind to stop racing at night. I'm only sleeping a couple of hours."
The Correct Answer is D
A. "Lately, I feel like I am more alert than usual and can focus better.": Depression is commonly associated with difficulties in concentration, memory impairment, and slowed cognitive function rather than increased alertness or improved focus. Clients with depression often report feeling mentally sluggish or experiencing brain fog.
B. "I can't sit still. I feel like I need to be doing things around the house.": While some individuals with depression experience psychomotor agitation, it is more common for depression to present with fatigue, low energy, and decreased motivation. Restlessness may also be seen in anxiety disorders, but it is not a primary symptom of depression.
C. "When I went to my provider, they told me I have high blood pressure.": Hypertension is a medical condition that may have various causes, but it is not a direct manifestation of depression. However, chronic stress and depression can contribute to cardiovascular issues over time, though depression itself is primarily characterized by emotional and cognitive symptoms.
D. "I can't get my mind to stop racing at night. I'm only sleeping a couple of hours.": Insomnia and difficulty falling or staying asleep are hallmark symptoms of depression. Clients often experience ruminative thoughts, early-morning awakenings, or non-restorative sleep, which can contribute to worsened mood, fatigue, and impaired daily functioning.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. To keep the client's environment calm and with minimal daily stimuli: While a calm environment can help manage acute psychotic symptoms, it is a short-term intervention rather than a long-term goal. Long-term management focuses on adherence to treatment and relapse prevention.
B. To be reoriented to their current environment as needed: Reorientation is beneficial for clients experiencing disorientation due to acute psychosis, but it is a short-term intervention. A long-term goal should focus on maintaining stability and preventing future relapse.
C. To ensure the client participates in a walk with staff on a daily basis: Regular physical activity can improve mental health, but it does not directly address medication adherence or long-term relapse prevention. The goal should focus on strategies to maintain treatment compliance.
D. To develop and acknowledge understanding of a relapse plan prior to discharge: A relapse plan helps the client recognize early warning signs, understand medication importance, and seek support when needed, which is essential for long-term symptom management and prevention of future hospitalizations.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Inappropriate guilt is a common symptom of depression, but it does not involve false beliefs about being targeted. Clients with major depressive disorder may feel excessive guilt, but this differs from the fixed, false beliefs seen in delusions.
B. Mania is characterized by elevated mood, impulsivity, and hyperactivity rather than paranoid thoughts. While manic episodes may include grandiose delusions, the belief that a government agency is attempting to capture the client aligns more with persecutory delusions.
C. Delusions are fixed, false beliefs that persist despite evidence to the contrary. The client’s statement suggests a persecutory delusion, which is commonly seen in psychotic disorders, including severe depression with psychotic features.
D. Confusion involves disorganized thinking, memory impairment, or difficulty understanding surroundings, often seen in delirium or cognitive disorders. While delusions can contribute to disorganized thoughts, they are distinct from general confusion.
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