Question

The nurse is providing care for an older adult client who is diagnosed with failure to thrive​ (FTT). Which treatment is appropriate for the nurse to include in the discharge instructions for this​ client?

a) Teaching about the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors​ (SSRIs) for​ depression, per order
b) Eating larger meals three times per day
c) Teaching the family to prepare all the client​'s meals
d) Providing foods recommended by the dietitian

Answer 1

Appropriate discharge instructions for an older adult client with failure to thrive should include teaching about SSRIs for treating depression, a potential underlying cause of FTT. SSRIs increase serotonin levels in the brain and can improve mood and appetite, key areas affected in FTT. The focus should be on nutrient-dense, smaller, and more frequent meals as well as adherence to a dietitian's recommendations.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for an older adult client diagnosed with failure to thrive (FTT), appropriate treatment in discharge instructions may include teaching about the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) prescribed for depression. It is important to remember that depression can be a contributing factor to FTT in older adults, and SSRIs can be an effective treatment. SSRIs work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, increasing its levels and thereby helping to alleviate symptoms of depression. This could, in turn, improve the overall well-being of the client, potentially addressing some of the issues relating to FTT.

Options such as eating larger meals might not be proven effective for someone with FTT, as they could have difficulty consuming large quantities of food. It's also better to focus on nutrient-dense rather than just calorie-dense meals. Instead, it's typically preferable to encourage frequent, smaller meals that are enriched with nutrients. Similarly, while family members preparing meals can be helpful, it’s essential that the nutritional advice of a dietitian is followed to ensure the client’s specific needs are met.

Aside from medications such as SSRIs, treatments for depression can also include psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy, deep-brain stimulation, and other medication classes such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors which are chosen based on the patient’s individual situation and medical history. Collaboration with healthcare professionals, including nurses, primary care providers, and mental health specialists, is key in developing a comprehensive plan for recovery.