The purpose of a screening tool for depression is to: a. ...

[jazziefee]

The purpose of a screening tool for depression is to:
 
  a. identify the need for more assessment or a referral
  b. differentiate the type of antidepressant drug to be given
  c. diagnose the type of depression
  d. identify the underlying cause of the depressive symptomatology

Question 2

A nurse plans to engage in participant observation while conducting a mental status examination. This will require the nurse to:
 
  a. increase verbalization with the patient.
  b. listen attentively to the patient's response.
  c. engage in communication and observation simultaneously.
  d. advise the patient on what to do about data obtained during the interview.

[kescobar@64]

Answer to Question 1

A
The purpose of a screening tool for depression is to identify the need for more assessment or a referral. For example, some clients present with signs and symptoms of dementia, but in fact are experiencing pseudodementia, which is another name for depression. The treatment for depression would differ from the treatment of dementia. Further assessment can be conducted to determine if the client is experiencing true dementia and appropriate referrals can be made. A commonly used tool with the elderly is the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), which is used for baseline mental status and also for dementia. The detection and management of acute delusional states (ACS)/delirium is essential to improving the outcomes for acutely ill elderly.

Answer to Question 2

C
Participant observation is a clinical approach that allows the nurse to critically observe a patient while structuring the examination in a way that allows for the broad exploration of many areas to screen for potential problems and for the in-depth exploration of obvious symptoms or maladaptive coping responses. Discussing treatment options is not the purpose of this intervention. Verbalization and attentive listening are required but may not need to be increased.