A Patient Whose Spouse Has Died Recently Reports Feeling Down

question 11

Multiple Choice

A patient whose spouse has died recently reports feeling down most of each day for the past 2 months. On further questioning,the nurse learns that the patient has quit participating in church and social activities,has difficulty falling asleep,and has lost 5 pounds. The patient reports feeling tired and confused all the time but does not have suicidal thoughts. What does the nurse suspect?

• A) Grief and sadness
• B) Hypomania
• C) Major depression
• D) Situational depression

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Definitions:

Antipsychotic Drugs

Medications used to treat psychiatric conditions by altering brain chemistry, particularly for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Neuroleptics

A class of medication primarily used to manage psychosis, particularly in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors

A class of medications used to treat depression by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.

Antidepressant Drugs

Medications prescribed to alleviate symptoms of depression by adjusting chemical imbalances in the brain.