A patient who was prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) 3 days ago says, "I'm so disappointed, this medicine isn't working." What intervention best addresses the client's expressed concern?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is important to educate the patient that SSRIs take time to build up in the system and provide relief from depressive symptoms. Informing them that this is normal and expected can help alleviate their disappointment and anxiety about the medication not working. Additionally, reassurance and empathy can be used to provide support during this time-lagged phase. Critical assessment or assessing understanding of depression may not directly address the patient's concern about medication effectiveness.

A Patient Who Was Prescribed a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor