Question

The nurse is caring for a patient experiencing depression. Which neurotransmitters should the nurse consider being decreased in this patient? (Select all that apply.)

a. Serotonin
b. Dopamine
c. Substance P
d. Acetylcholine
e. Norepinephrine

Answer 1

Decreased levels of certain neurotransmitters such as Serotonin, Dopamine, and Norepinephrine are often considered in patients with depression, while Substance P and Acetylcholine are less commonly associated.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a patient experiencing depression, a nurse should consider that there may be decreased levels of certain neurotransmitters. Specifically, these neurotransmitters include:

• 
  
• Serotonin - Often linked to mood regulation, low levels of serotonin are associated with depression. Antidepressants such as Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are designed to increase serotonin levels.
• 
  
• Dopamine - A neurotransmitter related to reward and pleasure systems, which may also be decreased in patients with depression.
• 
  
• Norepinephrine - Similar to serotonin, reduced levels of norepinephrine have been linked to symptoms of depression.

Substance P and Acetylcholine are not as commonly associated with depression as the above neurotransmitters.