Show
SummaryRead the full fact sheet
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by: Related information
Support groupsFrom other websitesContent disclaimerContent on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Depression is a mood disorder characterized by intense and persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest or enjoyment in things once loved. Major depressive disorder affects how you think and feel and can cause severe emotional symptoms and even thoughts that life isn’t worth living anymore. Major depression can affect not only the emotional aspect of one’s life but the physical as well. Patients may stop caring for their hygiene, experience insomnia or sleep too much, overeat or barely eat leading to weight loss or gain. The Nursing ProcessNurses will encounter patients with depression that may be exacerbated by other chronic health conditions. Pain and debilitating physical illnesses often lead to depression. Major depression requires the diagnosis and treatment of trained mental health providers, but nurses are important in offering a therapeutic relationship that allows patients to express their thoughts and feelings while supporting them holistically and maintaining their safety. Nursing Care Plans Related to Major DepressionSelf-Care Deficit Care PlanMajor depression can affect the patient’s motivation and energy in completing self-care tasks. Nursing Diagnosis: Self-Care Deficit Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Self-Care Deficit Assessment1. Assess barriers to
self-care. 2. Assess for a support system. 3. Assess medication regimen. Self-Care Deficit Interventions1. Encourage and coach. 2. Provide a routine and schedule. 3. Eat with others. 4. Provide nutritious snacks, meals, and
fluids. Hopelessness Care PlanA patient with major depression may feel no sense of purpose and no way out of their pessimistic state of mind. Nursing Diagnosis: Hopelessness Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Hopelessness Assessment1. Assess additional causes beyond depression. 2. Assess for
negative coping mechanisms. 3. Determine spiritual beliefs. Hopelessness Interventions1. Build a trusting relationship. 2.
Help the patient recognize their control. 3. Encourage counseling/therapy. 4. Help identify positive coping behaviors. Risk For Suicide Care PlanPatients with major depression that is not controlled may experience greater feelings of hopelessness which is associated with suicidal thoughts. Nursing Diagnosis: Risk for Suicide Related to:
Note: A risk diagnosis is not evidenced by signs and symptoms as the problem has not yet occurred and the goal of nursing interventions is aimed at prevention. Expected Outcomes:
Risk For Suicide Assessment1. Assess for a suicide plan. 2. Note the use of drugs or alcohol. Risk For Suicide Interventions1. Present a positive attitude. 2. Acknowledge suicide and consequences. 3. Administer medications. 4. Promote safety. 5. Continually re-evaluate suicide risk. References and Sources
Which symptoms will be experienced by a patient with major depressive disorder select all that apply?Depression diagnosis. sadness or depressed mood.. lack of interest or pleasure in almost all activities, especially those that used to be pleasurable.. trouble sleeping or sleeping all the time.. fatigue or lack of energy.. feelings of worthlessness and guilt.. an inability to concentrate or focus.. change in appetite.. What is the major reason for the hospitalization of a depressed patient?A threat of suicide is the most common reason for hospitalization, but it may not be enough to justify hospitalization. A mental health professional will need to evaluate your friend or loved one to determine if they're an immediate threat to themselves or others before agreeing to commit them to the hospital.
Which of the following is a well established difference between major depression and bipolar disorder?The main difference between the two is that depression is unipolar, meaning that there is no “up” period, but bipolar disorder includes symptoms of mania.
What is the best initial treatment for depression?TREATMENT FOR MAJOR DEPRESSION For the initial treatment of major depression, we suggest a combination of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. Well-designed studies have shown that combination treatment is more effective than either treatment on its own.
|