Mood Disorders and Pharmacology

Overview

Mood disorders include major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, which impact a person's emotional state and daily functioning. Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacology, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers. Nursing care focuses on safety, nutritional intake during mania, and monitoring for medication toxicity or side effects.

Key nursing concepts

• Depressive disorders involve persistent low mood and loss of interest.
• Bipolar disorder is characterized by cycles of mania and depression.
• SSRIs are the first-line medication treatment for most mood disorders.
• Lithium is a mood stabilizer requiring frequent blood level monitoring.
• Mania requires a low-stimulation environment to reduce agitation.
• Psychomotor retardation or agitation are common physical manifestations.

Important nursing considerations

• Assess for suicidal ideation, as the risk is high during deep depression.
• Monitor for side effects of SSRIs, including nausea and sexual dysfunction.
• Watch for serotonin syndrome: agitation, fever, and muscle rigidity.
• Evaluate the patient's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs).
• Ensure the patient does not consume tyramine if taking MAOIs.
• Allow the patient extra time to respond due to psychomotor retardation.

Patient teaching

• Instruct the patient not to stop antidepressants abruptly.
• Teach the importance of consistent salt and fluid intake with lithium.
• Advise avoiding aged cheeses and cured meats when taking MAOIs.

Related practice questions

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