Author Question: A nurse is interviewing a patient who recently lost her spouse. Which symptoms reported by the ... (Read 43 times)

future617RT · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A nurse is interviewing a patient who recently lost her spouse. Which symptoms reported by the patient would warrant a referral to a mental health provider? Select all that apply.

1. Prolonged insomnia
2. Crying
3. Severe weight loss
4. Anger
5. Suicidal ideation

Question 2

A nurse is working with the family of a child diagnosed with leukemia. Which nursing interventions are most appropriate? Select all that apply.

1. Offer financial advice
2. Provide active listening
3. Offer referral to a spiritual advisor
4. Work with physicians to provide information
5. Provide information on available support groups

frankwu0507 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: 1, 3, 5
Explanation: Referral to a mental health specialist for evaluation for depression may be warranted when symptoms include prolonged insomnia, severe weight loss, or suicidal ideation. Temporary loss of appetite, crying and anger are normal and expected responses to grief.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: 2, 3, 4, 5
Explanation: Support groups can help the family understand information and access resources. A referral to a spiritual advisor is indicated if the client agrees. In situations of loss related to medical illness or injury, it is common to work with physicians to provide information about the patient. Providing therapeutic communication including active listening is an essential component of nursing. Offering financial advice is not part of the nurse's scope of knowledge, but a referral for those services would be collaborative care.