A. Conduct a literature search to evaluate nursing care or management implications of a
therapeutic nursing intervention by doing the following:
- Identify a nursing care or management problem for a therapeutic nursing situation.
- Complete the attached matrix to list 10 primary research sources (peer-reviewed
articles) you locate in major medical databases.
Note: Submit your completed matrix as a separate attachment to the task.
Note: Credible sources may include professional journals, research reports, professional
Web sites, governmental reports, current texts less than five years old, and presentations
from professional meetings. - Conduct a review of the 10 peer-reviewed research articles in which you:
a. Develop an annotated bibliography (suggested length of 2-3 pages) of the articles.
Note: An annotated bibliography is one that includes not only a brief summary of content
for each book or article reviewed, but also contains other relevant comments and
information that the candidate believes can be of help for future study. See Web Links
below for more information on annotated bibliographies.
b. Discuss whether the researchers present a case for the efficacy of a specified therapeutic
approach. (1/2 page)
c. Identify whether the researchers chose tools that were similar or different. (1/2 page)
d. Discuss whether you believe the tools the researchers chose could have affected their
results. (1/2 page) - Develop an evidence summary of the articles, identifying what key criteria were used to
develop it (suggested length of 1/2-1 page). - Recommend a specific nursing strategy based on the theoretical models and evidence you
found in your review (suggested length 1/2 page). - Explain why you believe it is important to use a theoretical model for nursing research
(suggested length of ½-1 page).
B. If you use sources, include all in-text citations and references in APA format.
Nursing Research
Mood disorders as a management problem for a therapeutic nursing situation
Mood disorders are common psychiatric disorders presented by a number of patients. These
disorders are associated with conditions such as depression, irritability and intense excitement
that have considerable effect on therapeutic disease management strategies. Individuals with a
depression disorder are often sad, unmotivated, feel worthless, suicidal, may be unable to eat and
sleep and have no interest in typical delightful activities. Some patients suffer from a bipolar
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disorder a condition that occurs when a person with depression experiences mania. Depression is
mainly concurrent with other psychiatric diagnoses. Primarily, virtually all patients diagnosed
with major depression disorders record histories of non-mood psychiatric disorders. The disorder
is most prevalent in persons with chronic diseases or in prolonged hospitalization. Mood disorder
challenges therapeutic interventions by interfering with the interaction of the patient and the
nurse because it makes patient develop negative attitudes towards the caregiver. A therapeutic
nurse-patient relationship is based on concepts of mutual trust, promoting faith and hope and
helping the patient overcome physical, spiritual and emotional challenges. However, mood
disorders create an environment that does not foster any of these principles. Consequently,
studies have affirmed establishing knowledge about mood disorder is essential in building
successful therapeutic strategies. A number of scholars have explored this problem and this paper
examines various proposals towards the management of the mood disorder.
Annotated bibliography
Barry, J. J. (2003). The Recognition and Management of Mood Disorders as a Comorbidity of
Epilepsy. Epilepsia (Series 4), 4430-40. doi:10.1046/j.1528-1157.44.s4.4.x
The authors of this article noted that mood disorders have a co-morbid manifestation in
people with medical disorders and it presents severe health concerns to those with epilepsy.
However, physicians have not identified affective disorders and appropriate treatment is rare.
Consequently, the study reviewed assessment issues related with the management of mood
disorders. This included examining the beneficial and destructive effects of antiepileptic drugs.
Furthermore, the article discusses the treatment strategies by focusing on antidepressants in
people with epilepsy in the aspect of safety and drugs interactions. The article proposes a
strategy of utilizing electroconvulsive therapy in management of depressive disorders. However,
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the authors observe that although electroconvulsive provide an effective detection and treatment
strategy, application of this knowledge in the management of mood disorders is still challenging.
Bajaj, P., & Tyrer, P., (2005). Managing mood disorders and comorbid personality disorders.
Medscape; 18(1): 27-31
The article was aimed at evaluating the effect of personality disorder co-morbidity on
common procedures of managing mood disorders. The examination identified that personality
disorders affect management of mood disorders negatively. The article argues that accounting for
personality features has the potential of reducing the negative outcome. Consequently, article
supports the unique role of psychological and educational therapies in the management of
various co-morbid disorders.
Baldwin, D. (2007). Instant wisdom: Mood and anxiety disorders. Hospital Doctor. Retrieved
from http://search.proquest.com/docview/225255419?accountid=45049
Baldman argues that individuals can easily experience emotions, but few have adequate
skills for assessing mood and anxiety disorders. The article gathered relevant secondary
information in order to develop strategic practices that would improve physician’s skills for
managing mood disorders. The article’s main recommendation emphasizes the significance of
correct diagnosis in the management of these disorders. The scholar guides that physicians must
be cautious when examining conditions that present mood disorder symptoms because various
patients with bipolar disorder are often misdiagnosed.
Bowles, B., Coleman, N. & Jansen, L. (2012). Postpartum mood disorders: The Nurses’ role in
identification and intervention. World Psychiatry Association. Retrieved from
http://faculty.mwsu.edu/nursing/laren.jansen/ppmdpaper.pdf.
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The study focuses on the postpartum mood disorders. The scholars utilized a qualitative
approach of research where they reviewed various scholarly articles, relevant publications and
reports. The study suggests early screening and education as ultimate strategies for managing
mood disorders. The study encourages the use of screening tools such as Zung Scale and
Postpartum Depression Scale (PDS) in managing the problem. The article concludes that the
objectives of these interventions can be accomplished through a communal effort where all
stakeholders, families, physicians and communities participate activity in managing the problem
of mood disorder.
Hede, A. (2010). The dynamics of mindfulness in managing emotions and stress. The Journal of
Management Development, 29(1), 94-110. doi:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/02621711011009090
The article had an aim of examining the concept of mindfulness in order to explain the
how it may be extended from psychology into the management of mood disorders. Furthermore,
the study targeted developing a new model for managing mood disorders by utilizing two types
of mindfulness. The scholar believed that a model that utilizes concepts of “meta-mindfulness”
and “supra-mindfulness” could improve strategies for managing emotional reactivity and in
minimizing stress. The study approach assumed that “meta-self” plays a vital role in emotions
management by utilizing meta-mindfulness to monitor one’s sub-selves that react with external
world. The article describes strategies for testing the proposed schemes of psyche and dynamic
mindfulness in stress management in future. The article recommends that therapeutics should
utilize mindfulness strategies in avoiding emotional reactivity and managing stress.
Kims, G., & Linda, F., (2000). Management of bipolar disorder. American Family of Physician
15, 62(6):1343-1353.
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The article indicates that bipolar disorder is a serious condition with high potential of
interfering with the management of diseases. Consequently, the authors of this article conducted
extensive literature review with the intention of developing strategic recommendation that could
aid management of mood disorders. The article directs that individuals with acute mania should
be examined urgently. The scholars argue that medication offers a strategic intervention of
stabilizing bipolar disorder. This should include an initial package of treating mania using
lithium or Depakene. Furthermore, the article highlights that care providers should use
brupropion in depressed bipolar disorder patients. The article emphasize that physicians should
utilize a universal management plan that includes collaboration between patient’s family and
psychiatrist in managing bipolar disorder.
Lepine, J., (2012). Mood disorders: management and treatment strategies for the 21 st century.
Medscape Education.
The article focuses on the relationship between somatic and psychic symptoms. The
author argues that earlier clinical experience has focused on identification of psychic symptoms.
However, the article notes that psychic symptoms are not primarily the main target when of the
typical therapeutic strategy. The scholar reviewed various studies in order to develop succinct
conclusions regarding management of the mood disorders. The scholar concluded that somatic
symptoms present a trait of increased chances of measured depression. Furthermore, the article
notes that somatic symptoms and depression manifest a common pharmacology that involves
both noradrenergic and serotonergic transmission. Interestingly, the article proposes that care
providers can use antidepressants in managing both depression and somatic symptoms
successfully.
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Markowitz, J. & Weissman, M. (2004). Interpersonal psychotherapy: principles and applications.
World Psychiatry Association. 3(3): 136–139.
The article’s major aim included describing essential strategies and some operation
principles of interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT). Examining IPT was essential because this model
provides a time-limited and empirically approved treatment procedure for managing mood
disorders. The study relied on secondary information. The scholars approve cognitive behavioral
therapy (CBT) and IPT as the two major psychotherapeutic interventions for managing mood
disorders. The article concludes that IPT is an effective psychotherapy diagnosis strategy that is
well defined and has high efficiency. However, the scholar proposes that further studies should
examine aspects such as the indication of the IPT strategy under diverse conditions, the optimal
dosing and the possibility of combining the model with the pharmacotherapy strategies.
Pettinati, H. M., O’Brien, C. P., & Dundon, W. D. (2013). Current Status of Co-Occurring Mood
and Substance Use Disorders: A New Therapeutic Target. American Journal Of
Psychiatry, 170(1), 23-30.
The articles argue that although mood and substance use disorders co-occur, studies have
not identified effective pharmacologic management for these disorders. The study reviewed
accessible empirical findings including the modern clinical pharmacotherapy procedures for
treating co-occurring disorders. The study identified that pharmacotherapy for managing mood
attributes may be effective in clients with substance dependence. The scholars also described that
the medication for managing mood signs did not have a significance effect on the substance use
disorder. The article highlights that combination of treatment procedures is very effective in the
management of depressive symptoms. However, the study proposes for the need of utilizing the
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newly available data in examining modern procedures in management of mood and substance
use disorders.
Yonkers,K., & Vigod, S., & Ross, L. (2011) Diagnosis, pathophysiology, and management of
mood disorders in pregnant and postpartum women. National Center of Biotechnology,
l117(4):961-77. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0b013e31821187a7.
The article highlights that mood disorders have considerable effects on patients. This is
because mood disorders particularly one that appear during pregnancy lead to complications such
obstetric, maternal suicide, neonatal problems and infanticide. The study had the prime aim of
examining important information on depressive diseases by concentrating in the prenatal period.
The scholars focused on main depressive disorder and bipolar condition. The study utilized
qualitative research approach in examining its variables. The research concluded that precise
diagnosis of unipolar main depressive condition from bipolar disorder could enhance the
selection of the most appropriate treatment alternatives. The scholars pointed out that counseling
may be adequate for patients who have mild depression; however, patients with severe
depression should receive antidepressants. The study warns that women with bipolar disorder
have high chances of presenting deteriorated states in situations where mood stabilizer
medication is withdrawn. Furthermore, the scholars guide that co-management of the care of
these patients with psychiatrists has the potential of reducing a recurrence of illness.
Discuss whether the researchers present a case for the efficacy of a specified therapeutic
approach.
The review of various studies indicates that researchers tend to present a case for the
efficacy of a therapeutic approach that prioritizes the concepts of accurate diagnosis and a
communal effort in managing the condition. Various studies have argued that the major problem
NURSING RESEARCH 8
associated with the management of mood disorders include poor or misinformed diagnosis that
leads to adoption of wrong interventions. A strong observation made by various researchers
indicates correct diagnosis that includes earlier detection of the condition would provide nurses
with the opportunity of adopting appropriate interventions. Furthermore, most researchers
emphasize that joint interventions that incorporate various stakeholders and diverse procedures
provide the ultimate therapeutic approach of managing mood disorders. This is because mood
disorders present diverse implications and conditions that can hardly be managed using a single
set or strategy. For example, researchers identify that at some stages of depression would better
be managed using medications while other levels need different interventions. Moreover,
combined effort becomes essential because of the sophisticated nature of moods disorders.
Identify whether the researchers chose tools that were similar or different
The researchers selected different tools in exploring the subject. Researchers chose tools
that they believed would enable them attain the best results. Consequently, each study presents a
unique design and strategy for examining its variables and making deductions. The selection of
the tools to be utilized on the study is influenced by consideration of factors such as the type of
study, the information that needs to be accessed, analysis to be conducted on the accessible data
and the available resources among others. Utilizing studies that are based on various tools
provides the learner with the opportunity of examining the subject from diverse perspectives.
Discuss whether you believe the tools the researchers chose could have affected their results
I strongly believe that the tools selected by the researchers have high potential of
affecting their results. Research tools delineate the boundaries of the study because the
evaluating must fall within the capacity of the available tools. Consequently, research tools will
define attributes such as the type and the amount of data to be evaluated, the procedure of
NURSING RESEARCH 9
developing conclusions and the precision of the research. All these aspects are capable of
affecting the study’s results. For example, examination of small amount of data may lead to
partial examination of essential variables that may limit findings. In contrast, utilization of
effective tools or the tool with high capability may have a constructive effect on the results. This
affirms the need of reviewing research tools when evaluating the feasibility of a particular study.
An evidence summary of the articles
The articles examined in this paper assume various research approaches in evaluating the
subject. Most of the articles have utilized qualitative methodologies in collecting and evaluating
the topic. Primarily, the articles are organized in scientific manner and have utilized standard and
reliable tools in conducting analysis. The researchers have great knowledge of drafting and
presenting research work as exemplified in their professional way of organizing their findings
and arguments. Furthermore, the authors of these articles have knowledge about major concerns
in the management of mood disorders. The articles present diverse conclusions and
recommendations for effective strategies of managing the condition. These include the proposal
for the use of medication, education, special practices like understanding patient’s personality
and utilizing unique concepts such as “mindfulness” in managing the problem. The major criteria
used in developing articles include designing them according to the study’s aim. Furthermore,
most scholars have established their studies by identifying gaps that were left by earlier scholars.
Recommendation of a specific nursing strategy
Emphasizing correct diagnosis and educational strategies would provide an effective
nursing strategy for addressing the problem of mood disorders. Appropriate diagnosis includes
the concept of utilizing effective screening tools that would enhance early detection. Strategic
tools that would improve physician’s knowledge of diagnosing the condition appropriately
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should accompany this procedure. Consequently, education interventions should target all
relevant stakeholders and explore diverse concerns experienced in the management of mood
disorders. Considering the significance of combined approach in the management of these
disorders, educational interventions should empowers stakeholders such as the health care
providers and the patient’s family. This becomes essential because stakeholders who have
knowledge of the condition and the available therapeutic strategies are capable of managing the
disorder accordingly.
Importance of using a theoretical model for nursing research
Utilizing a theoretical mode for nursing research is important because the strategy
provides principles that underline practice and help in creating further nursing knowledge.
However, disagreements in the professional literature on nursing theory bring confusion.
Theoretical mode can enable patient managers identify unique role of nurses in the healthcare
procedures. Furthermore, health professionals utilize theoretical mode in organizing their care
procedures and in developing informed disease management strategies that are feasible. This
happens when professional puts theoretical knowledge into practice. Theoretical mode for
nursing ensures that researchers are utilizing appropriate approach when designing their studies.
Moreover, the mode ensures that healthcare professionals are using the best available strategies
in managing health challenges.
References
Bajaj, P., & Tyrer, P. (2005). Managing mood disorders and comorbid personality disorders.
Medscape; 18(1): 27-31
Baldwin, D. (2007). Instant wisdom: Mood and anxiety disorders. Hospital Doctor.
NURSING RESEARCH 11
Barry, J. J. (2003). The Recognition and Management of Mood Disorders as a Comorbidity
ofEpilepsy. Epilepsia (Series 4), 4430-40. doi:10.1046/j.1528-1157.44.s4.4.x
Bowles, B., Coleman, N. & Jansen, L. (2012). Postpartum mood disorders: The Nurses’ role in
identification and intervention. World Psychiatry Association.
Markowitz, J. & Weissman, M. (2004). Interpersonal psychotherapy: principles and applications.
World Psychiatry Association. 3(3): 136–139.
Pettinati, H. M., O’Brien, C. P., & Dundon, W. D. (2013). Current Status of Co-Occurring Mood
and Substance Use Disorders: A New Therapeutic Target. American Journal Of
Psychiatry, 170(1), 23-30.
Yonkers,K., & Vigod, S., & Ross, L. (2011). Diagnosis, Pathophysiology, and management of
mood disorders in pregnant and postpartum women. National Center of Biotechnology,