A priority intervention for a patient with major depression is: ...

[Beheh]

A priority intervention for a patient with major depression is:
 
  a. distracting the patient from self-absorption.
  b. carefully and unobtrusively observing the patient around the clock.
  c. allowing the patient to spend long periods alone in meditation.
  d. offering opportunities for the patient to assume a leadership role in the therapeutic milieu.

Question 2

A patient with major depression says, No one cares about me anymore. I'm not worth anything. The nurse wants to reinforce positive self-esteem. Today, the patient is wearing a new shirt and has neat, clean hair. Which remark is most appropriate?
 
  a. You look nice this morning.
  b. You're wearing a new shirt.
  c. I like the shirt you're wearing.
  d. You must be feeling better today.

[cassie_ragen]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Approximately two thirds of people with depression contemplate suicide. Patients with depression who exhibit feelings of worthlessness are at higher risk. Regularly planned observations of the patient with depression may prevent a suicide attempt on the unit.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Patients with depression usually see the negative side of things. The meaning of compliments may be altered to I didn't look nice yesterday or They didn't like my other shirt. Neutral comments such as an observation avoid negative interpretations. Saying You look nice or I like your shirt gives approval (nontherapeutic techniques). Saying You must be feeling better today is an assumption, which is nontherapeutic.

[Beheh]

Excellent

[kishoreddi]

Great answer, keep it coming