A patient with irritable bowel syndrome asks the nurse, "Why did the doctor order something for depression?" How should the nurse respond?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Antidepressant medications are often prescribed to patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) not because the patient is depressed, but because these medications can help relieve some of the symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and discomfort. The nurse should explain to the patient that the medication is not necessarily for depression, but rather to help manage their IBS symptoms.

A Patient with Irritable Bowel Syndrome Asks the Nurse, "Why