In planning discharge teaching for a depressed client, the nurse includes: 'Continue taking the antidepressant for ____ weeks before deciding it isn’t effective.' Which number reflects standard recommendation?
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Correct answer: About 4 to 6 weeks of treatment
Antidepressants typically require 4-6 weeks (often up to 6) for full therapeutic effect; premature discontinuation may undermine recovery.
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More Major Depressive Disorder questions
- According to the DSM-5, how long must core symptoms persist to consider a diagnosis of a major depressive episode?
- Which two symptoms must be present (at minimum) for a diagnosis of a major depressive episode?
- A client states, 'I haven’t enjoyed anything in weeks. I feel hopeless and worthless.' These comments reflect which symptom cluster?
- Which of the following is not a diagnostic criterion symptom of MDD in the DSM-5?
- The nurse knows that major depressive disorder most significantly impairs which areas of functioning?
- In planning a group session for clients with MDD, which content is most appropriate?