What is the best response by the nurse when a parent expresses concern that an antidepressant has been prescribed for her adolescent son?

What is the best response by the nurse when a parent expresses concern that an antidepressant has been prescribed for her adolescent son?

• A. “Tell me more about what's bothering you.”
• B. “You need to speak with the primary healthcare provider about your concern.”
• C. “Are you sure it's not a medication for attention deficit disorder?”
• D. “Didn't the primary healthcare provider tell you why your son needs an antidepressant?”

Answer: (A)

Opening with an open, nonjudgmental invitation to share concerns is the best approach. When a parent says she’s worried about an antidepressant for her adolescent, the first move is to invite more detail: “Tell me more about what’s bothering you.” This shows empathy, validates her feelings, and creates space for her to voice specific worries—safety, side effects, effectiveness, stigma, or how the child is doing. This kind of response does two important things. It builds trust and rapport, which is essential for shared decision-making and ongoing collaboration with the family. It also gives the nurse information to address precisely what worries the parent, rather than making assumptions. After the concerns are expressed, the nurse can provide tailored information about why the medication was chosen, what to monitor (for example, changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or any thoughts about self-harm), how long it may take to see benefit, and when to seek help. The goal is to support the family, correct misconceptions, and ensure safe, ongoing care. Other responses can shut down dialogue or come off as dismissive. Directing the parent to speak with the provider without engaging her concerns misses an opportunity to address safety, expectations, and questions. Questioning whether it’s for ADHD implies a judgment about the child’s diagnosis. Assuming the provider already explained the rationale can make the parent feel unheard or embarrassed for asking questions. The open, empathetic prompt keeps communication patient-centered and collaborative.

Opening with an open, nonjudgmental invitation to share concerns is the best approach. When a parent says she’s worried about an antidepressant for her adolescent, the first move is to invite more detail: “Tell me more about what’s bothering you.” This shows empathy, validates her feelings, and creates space for her to voice specific worries—safety, side effects, effectiveness, stigma, or how the child is doing.

This kind of response does two important things. It builds trust and rapport, which is essential for shared decision-making and ongoing collaboration with the family. It also gives the nurse information to address precisely what worries the parent, rather than making assumptions. After the concerns are expressed, the nurse can provide tailored information about why the medication was chosen, what to monitor (for example, changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or any thoughts about self-harm), how long it may take to see benefit, and when to seek help. The goal is to support the family, correct misconceptions, and ensure safe, ongoing care.

Other responses can shut down dialogue or come off as dismissive. Directing the parent to speak with the provider without engaging her concerns misses an opportunity to address safety, expectations, and questions. Questioning whether it’s for ADHD implies a judgment about the child’s diagnosis. Assuming the provider already explained the rationale can make the parent feel unheard or embarrassed for asking questions. The open, empathetic prompt keeps communication patient-centered and collaborative.