Major depressive disorder
Pathophysiology
Medication
Nursing interventions
Medical interventions
Pertinent assessment findings
Nursing considerations
Patient education
When major depressive episodes repeat themselves for more than 2 years, depressive disorder is diagnosed. They can occur in response to situations, events, and developmental tasks. They are often seen in combination with other mental health problems. Severe, prolonged depression results in many physical changes and increase's ones risk for illness.
Patient finds no pleasure in any activity or social interaction
Suffers form suicidal ideations
Decline in mental or physical health
Psychotherapies- Cognitive behavioral therapy is used to help clients identify and correct self-defeating thoughts that may lead to depression. Interpersonal therapy assists clients with relationships and interactions.
Electroconvulsive therapy- Introduction of a controlled grand mal seizure by passing an electrical current through the brain. Works by raising the levels of norepinephrine.
Reduce symptoms and inappropriate behaviors
To prevent relapses into depressing emotional states
To prevent recurrences
To provide patient safety
Pharmacological treatment
Tricyclic antidepressants
Transcranial direct current stimulation- Uses a mild electrical current to stimulate the brain. Studies have shown encouraging results with improvement in depression, attention, and memory.
MAO inhibitors
SSRI's
SNRI's
Mood stabilizing drugs
Institute suicide precautions
Encourage frequent oral car
Monitor food and fluid intake
Teach relaxation techniques
Encourage patient to discuss thoughts and feeling
Teach patient to report eye pain immediately
Teach importance of adequate food and fluid intake
Encourage a high fiber diet to combat constipation
Teach client to rise and chage position slowly
Monitor vitals
Monitor for psychosis, seizures, and hypoactivity