The nurse educator is conducting class on depression. Which of the following statements by a student indicates an understanding of the pathophysiology?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Low levels of neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin and norepinephrine, in the limbic region of the brain are thought to contribute to the pathophysiology of depression. Option A is incorrect because an excess of excitatory neurotransmitters is not typically associated with depression but rather with anxiety disorders. Option C is incorrect because high levels of cortisol, not low levels, have been linked to depression. Option D is partially correct but is not a complete understanding of the pathophysiology of depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, leading to increased levels in the synaptic cleft, which improves mood. However, other mechanisms may also be involved in the development of depression.

The Nurse Educator Is Conducting Class on Depression