A nurse is caring for a client who has major depressive disorder and attempted suicide. The client tells the nurse, "I should have died because I am totally worthless." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
"You've been feeling that your life has no meaning."
"You have a great deal to live for."
"It's not unusual for depressed people to feel that way."
"Why do you feel you are worthless?"
The Correct Answer is A
A. "You've been feeling that your life has no meaning."This response reflects active listening and acknowledges the client's emotions. It reflects the client's feelings and encourages them to express more about their emotions and thoughts. It shows empathy and understanding, which can help build trust and rapport.
B. "You have a great deal to live for" may seem dismissive and does not address the client's current feelings of worthlessness.
C. "It's not unusual for depressed people to feel that way" can come across as minimizing the client's unique experience and does not provide support or encourage further discussion.
D. "Why do you feel you are worthless?" might make the client feel defensive or overwhelmed, and it does not offer the same level of empathy and support as reflecting their feelings would.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Identify the client's nutritional status.
Explanation:
Given the significant weight loss and the client's distorted belief about her body image (believing she is fat despite losing weight), it is crucial to assess the client's nutritional status first. Rapid weight loss and distorted body image are characteristic features of an eating disorder, such as anorexia nervosa. The nurse needs to determine the extent of malnutrition and potential medical complications related to inadequate nutrition. This assessment will guide the subsequent interventions.
Why the other choices are incorrect:
B. Provide a structured environment for the client.
While providing a structured environment can be important in managing eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, it is not the first priority. Understanding the client's nutritional status and medical condition takes precedence.
C. Plan a therapeutic diet for the client.
Planning a therapeutic diet may be part of the client's care plan, but without understanding the underlying nutritional status and potential eating disorder, creating a diet plan may not be effective or appropriate.
D. Request a mental health consult.
While a mental health consult is important for addressing the client's distorted body image and potential eating disorder, it should follow the assessment of nutritional status. The nutritional assessment provides critical information for both medical and psychological interventions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Sharing personal information can blur the professional boundaries and might not be effective in reducing the client's suspicion. It's important to maintain a professional demeanor while building trust.
B) Approach the client frequently throughout the day for brief interactions:
While it's important to establish a presence and provide support, approaching the client too frequently might increase their discomfort and reinforce their suspicion. It's better to allow the client some personal space while ensuring they know you are available when needed.
C) Adopt a neutral attitude when providing care.
Explanation:
When dealing with a client who is extremely suspicious, it's important for the nurse to approach the situation with a neutral attitude. A neutral attitude helps to build trust and minimize any potential triggers for the client's suspicion. This approach creates a non-threatening environment where the client may feel more comfortable and gradually begin to open up.
D) Wait for the client to initiate interaction:
While giving the client space is important, waiting for them to initiate interaction might prolong the development of a therapeutic relationship. Clients who are extremely suspicious might have difficulty initiating interactions due to their concerns.
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