Examkin

Question

Difficulty: EasyMental Health Concepts

A client diagnosed with major depressive disorder has remained in their room all morning and refused to attend the scheduled unit activity. When the practical nurse (PN) enters the room, the client is staring out the window and ignoring the breakfast tray. Which statement by the PN is most therapeutic?

  1. I notice you are looking out the window. I have some time to sit here with you.Answer
  2. B
    It is important that you eat your meal so you can build up your physical strength.
  3. C
    Why did you choose to skip the morning group therapy session today?
  4. D
    Try to cheer up; your new antidepressant medication will make you feel better soon.

Answer

The most therapeutic statement is the one that acknowledges the client's current behavior without judgment and offers the nurse's silent presence and companionship.
The correct response demonstrates 'making observations' and 'offering self.' Acknowledging the client's behavior without judgment, followed by offering time and presence, is highly therapeutic for a withdrawn, depressed client. This approach demonstrates empathy and availability without placing any conversational demands on a client who likely lacks the energy to interact.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the client's current behavioral state and emotional presentation.
The client is demonstrating severe withdrawal, lack of energy, and disinterest in eating or participating in activities.
Understanding the client's emotional state helps determine the appropriate level of intervention and communication style.
2
Identify the most appropriate therapeutic communication technique for a severely depressed, withdrawn client.
Techniques such as 'making observations' and 'offering self' are identified as the best approaches.
Clients with profound depression often lack the cognitive energy to answer direct questions or engage in heavy conversation. Offering silent companionship builds trust and shows unconditional acceptance.
3
Evaluate the options against known non-therapeutic communication blocks.
Statements that give advice, ask 'why', or offer false reassurance are eliminated.
Communication blocks invalidate the client's feelings and can halt the therapeutic relationship.

Key Concept

Therapeutic Communication in Mental Health
Rate this question

Topics

Mental Health Concepts

More questions from this topic