depression

Question 1

definition

Answer 1

is a mood disorder that is characterized by a decreased mood state &/or a reduction in interest in things formerly enjoyed

Question 2

s/s

Answer 2

-feelings of sadness, low self esteem, apathy, pessimism, worthlessness
-suicidal thoughts, gestures, attempts
-tearful, anxious, irritability,
-poor hygiene
-decreased libido
-headache, fatigue, constipation, disordered sleep, weight gain/loss, pain
-memory loss, impaired concentration, obsessive thoughts
-impaired reasoning, inability to make safe decisions, jumping to conclusions

Question 3

observe for

Answer 3

-poor eye contact
-tearfulness
-slowed speech
-inattentive to appearance
-mental status changes
-flat affect

Question 4

considerations for tx

Answer 4

-refer for diag & tx, including counseling if needed
-educate pt & fam ab med actions, side effects, food interactions, signs of suicidal ideation & develop an action plan
-encourage good nutrition, exercise, sleep, hygiene, & socialization
-when meds are prescribed, starting dose should be about 50% normal starting dose due to the way drugs are metabolized in the elderly
-may take 6 or more weeks to see improvement of s/s