A nurse is educating a support group about depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. Which statement accurately describes a symptom of a depressive episode?
During a depressive episode, a person may experience excessive involvement in risky activities.
People in a depressive episode often exhibit an increase in goal-directed activity.
A person with a depressive episode may have a decreased need for sleep.
Significant weight loss or gain without intentional effort is a possible symptom.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
This statement is not accurate for a depressive episode. Excessive involvement in risky activities is more characteristic of a manic episode in bipolar disorder, not a depressive one. Manic episodes are marked by increased energy levels and impulsivity.
Choice B rationale:
An increase in goal-directed activity is not a typical symptom of a depressive episode. Depressive episodes are associated with a decrease in energy, motivation, and interest in previously enjoyed activities, leading to reduced activity levels.
Choice C rationale:
A decreased need for sleep is more commonly associated with manic episodes, where individuals experience a reduced need for sleep due to heightened energy levels. In depressive episodes, sleep disturbances such as insomnia are more prevalent.
Choice D rationale:
Significant weight loss or gain without intentional effort is a possible symptom. Changes in appetite and weight are hallmark features of a depressive episode. Clients may experience a loss of interest in food and subsequently lose weight, or they might engage in "comfort eating," leading to weight gain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is not commonly used as a psychotherapeutic intervention for managing bipolar disorder. DBT is often used to treat borderline personality disorder and focuses on emotional regulation and interpersonal skills.
Choice B rationale:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used as a psychotherapeutic intervention for managing bipolar disorder. It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, which can be valuable in managing both depressive and manic symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Family-focused therapy (FFT) is commonly used as a psychotherapeutic intervention for managing bipolar disorder. It involves the family in the treatment process and aims to improve communication, problem-solving, and support within the family unit.
Choice D rationale:
Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) is commonly used as a psychotherapeutic intervention for managing bipolar disorder. It focuses on stabilizing daily routines and sleep patterns, which can help prevent mood episodes and maintain stability.
Choice E rationale:
Exposure therapy is not commonly used for managing bipolar disorder. Exposure therapy is typically used to treat anxiety disorders, particularly phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and involves gradually exposing individuals to their feared situations or memories to reduce anxiety.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Assessing the patient's medical history is crucial in understanding potential risk factors for suicide in patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Various medical conditions and medications can contribute to depression and increase the risk of suicidal ideation. By gathering this information, the nurse can identify any factors that might exacerbate the patient's condition.
Choice B rationale:
Monitoring the patient's response to treatment is essential for assessing the effectiveness of interventions and identifying any signs of worsening depression or increased suicidal risk. Certain treatments, like antidepressant medications, might initially increase the risk of suicide in some patients. Therefore, close monitoring is needed to ensure patient safety.
Choice C rationale:
Asking direct questions about suicidal thoughts is a critical component of assessing suicide risk in patients with MDD. Openly addressing this topic allows the nurse to gauge the patient's current state of mind, explore the presence and severity of suicidal ideation, and take appropriate actions if the patient expresses active suicidal thoughts.
Choice D rationale:
Providing a list of local crisis helplines can be beneficial, but it is not a component of the nursing assessment for suicide risk in patients with MDD. While offering resources is important, the immediate focus should be on assessing the patient's condition and potential risk factors.
Choice E rationale:
Encouraging the patient to isolate themselves is not an appropriate action when assessing suicide risk in patients with MDD. Social isolation can exacerbate depressive symptoms and increase the risk of suicide. Therefore, promoting social connection and support is essential, rather than encouraging isolation.
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