The nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing extreme sadness after the passing of a companion of 30 years. The client describes not being able to think of other things and finds it difficult to control emotions. Which action should the nurse take first?
Explore changes in life that have occurred after the loss.
Suggest the need for a psychiatric consultation.
Offer a referral to pastoral counseling.
Encourage attending a local support group.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Exploring changes in life that have occurred after the loss is the first action the nurse should take. This allows the nurse to assess the client's grief, identify specific stressors, and understand how the loss is impacting the client's daily life and emotional well-being. It provides valuable information for tailoring further interventions and support.
Choice B rationale:
Suggesting the need for a psychiatric consultation may be premature as the nurse should first assess the client's grief and coping mechanisms. Referral for psychiatric consultation should be considered if the client's emotional distress is severe, persistent, or significantly impacting their functioning.
Choice C rationale:
Offering a referral to pastoral counseling may be appropriate for some clients, but it should not be the first action. The nurse should assess the client's needs and preferences before making such a referral.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging attendance at a local support group can be beneficial, but it should not be the initial step. The nurse should first assess the client's current emotional state and needs to determine the most appropriate interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Spending time sitting in silence with the client can be a therapeutic intervention for someone who is depressed and experiencing delayed responses. It allows the client to feel a sense of presence and support without the pressure to speak or respond immediately.
This approach can help create a safe and non-judgmental environment for the client to express themselves when they are ready.
Choice B rationale:
Involving the client in a daily exercise program may be a beneficial part of the overall care plan for managing depression, but it does not directly address the client's delayed responses during interactions.
Choice C rationale:
Asking the client to describe her depression may be a useful therapeutic intervention to explore the client's feelings and experiences, but it should be done in a way that respects the client's pace and readiness to discuss her emotions.
Choice D rationale:
Observing for signs of possible psychosis is important for assessing the client's mental health, but delayed responses alone may not necessarily indicate psychosis. It's essential to consider the broader clinical picture and conduct a comprehensive assessment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Rationale:
While emotional expression and ventilation can be therapeutic, it may not be the most appropriate coping strategy for someone with depression who may already be overwhelmed by negative emotions. Ventilating emotions without a structured approach might not provide the desired relief and can even exacerbate feelings of distress.
Choice B Rationale:
This choice may not be suitable for someone with depression because it could lead to further neglect of their own needs and contribute to feelings of guilt or exhaustion.
Choice C Rationale:
While relaxation techniques can be helpful, reducing the effort to solve problems may not be the most effective strategy for individuals with depression. Avoidance of problems can perpetuate feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.
Choice D Rationale:
For a client with depression who is struggling with handling personal circumstances, focusing on small achievable tasks can be a helpful coping strategy. Breaking down larger problems into manageable steps can reduce feelings of overwhelm and gradually improve the client's sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy.
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