Author Question: Which observation should indicate to the nurse to assess an older patient for depression? 1. Flat ... (Read 84 times)

charchew · **on:** Jul 11, 2018

Which observation should indicate to the nurse to assess an older patient for depression?

1. Flat affect
2. Hyperactivity
3. Racing thoughts
4. Pressured speech

Question 2

The nurse caring for older patients in a long-term care facility is organizing a depression screening program for the residents. How will this screening program benefit the older patients?

1. Differentiates dysthymia from delirium
2. Supports care expectations of the older patients' family members
3. Depression symptoms are often associated with chronic illness and pain.
4. Depression is the easiest mood disorder to detect and treat in older patients.

briseldagonzales · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 11, 2018

Answer to Question 1

1
Rationale: A flat affect or having minimal or no reaction to emotion is one clinical manifestation of depression in an older patient.

Answer to Question 2

3
Rationale: Screening an older patient for depression is not done to differentiate dysthymia from delirium. Older patients may experience persistent feelings of sadness but not meet the criteria for depression.