True or False: A person with severe depression may sleep excessively.

Choice A rationale
Suicidal ideations are a critical concern in individuals who have recently experienced a significant loss and are exhibiting symptoms of depression, such as memory loss, insomnia, loss of appetite, and irritability. The loss of a spouse can trigger intense grief, which can lead to physical and mental health issues, including sleep disorders like insomnia, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, the individual may also experience a heart attack. Therefore, assessing for suicidal ideations is crucial in these situations.
Choice B rationale
While a medication history is important in any health assessment, it is not the most critical data to obtain in this specific scenario. The client’s symptoms are more indicative of a grief reaction or possible depression, which would not be directly revealed through a medication history.
Choice C rationale
Although alcohol use can exacerbate symptoms of depression and grief, and it is important to assess alcohol use in any patient presenting with mental health concerns, it is not the most critical data to obtain in this scenario. The client’s symptoms and recent loss point more towards a need to assess for suicidal ideations.
Choice D rationale
Anhedonia, or the inability to feel pleasure, is a common symptom of depression. However, in this scenario, the client’s symptoms and recent loss make it more critical to first assess for suicidal ideations.

Choice A rationale
While fostering a social relationship can be a part of therapeutic communication, it is not the primary goal. The main focus is on the client’s needs and concerns.
Choice B rationale
Focusing on the attitude of the client is not the primary goal of therapeutic communication. The main goal is to understand the client’s experiences and feelings.
Choice C rationale
The primary goals of therapeutic communication are to focus on the client and to build a rapport. This involves understanding the client’s needs, concerns, and emotions effectively.
Choice D rationale
Focusing on the staff member and building rapport is not the primary goal of therapeutic communication. The main focus should be on the client.