Author Question: A nurse is conducting a follow-up assessment on a patient who lost his best friend several months ... (Read 32 times)

Charlie · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A nurse is conducting a follow-up assessment on a patient who lost his best friend several months ago. What patient statement would indicate that interventions have been effective?

1. I just can't get over it.
2. I think I'm sleeping better lately.
3. I don't care about my loss anymore.
4. I think that I am fine and don't really need treatment.

Question 2

A patient who lost a grandchild over a year ago recently stopped taking her anti-depressant medication. When assessing the patient, which finding would suggest a relapse of the patient's depression?

1. Changes in the patient's sleep patterns
2. Increased patient talk about her grandchild
3. Continuing patient participation in a grief support group
4. Patient involvement in creating a memorial scholarship fund

anoriega3 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: 2
Explanation: Improved sleep in the patient who is grieving is an indication that interventions are helping. The patient who reports I just can't get over it, may not be benefitting from interventions. The patient who says I don't care may be exhibiting denial or depression and may require further assessment. The patient who does not want treatment may be experiencing reluctance rather than recovery.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: 1
Explanation: Early signs of relapse of depression may include sleep difficulties that recur after a period of improvement. Talking about a loved one can be an effective strategy for coping with loss. Participating in creating an appropriate memorial can also support healing. Ongoing participation in treatment is an indication of effective involvement, not of relapse.