A nurse is caring for a client who has major depressive disorder and states that he has given away his personal belongings. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
A.
“Why did you feel like giving away your belongings?”
B.
“You should find a support group to attend.”
C.
“Everyone feels a little down sometimes.”
D.
“Can you tell me how you have been feeling lately?”
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. “Can you tell me how you have been feeling lately?”
Explanation:
When a client with major depressive disorder (MDD) expresses behaviors such as giving away personal belongings, it can indicate a worsening of their condition, potentially linked to feelings of hopelessness, lack of self-worth, or even suicidal ideation. The nurse’s response should be empathetic and aimed at encouraging the client to open up about their feelings.
Option D is the most appropriate because it invites the client to share their emotions and thoughts in a safe and supportive manner. This open-ended question not only demonstrates the nurse’s willingness to listen but also provides an opportunity for the client to articulate their feelings, which can be therapeutic. By encouraging dialogue, the nurse can assess the severity of the client’s depression and identify any immediate needs, such as increased monitoring or intervention.
Option A, “Why did you feel like giving away your belongings?” may come across as confrontational or judgmental, potentially shutting down communication. The phrase “why did you” can imply blame or make the client feel defensive.
Option B, “You should find a support group to attend,” while suggesting a helpful resource, does not address the client’s immediate emotional state. It may also feel dismissive if the client is seeking understanding and empathy.
Option C, “Everyone feels a little down sometimes,” minimizes the client’s experience and may invalidate their feelings. This response could foster feelings of isolation or increase the client’s sense of not being understood.
In mental health nursing, fostering a therapeutic relationship through empathetic communication is crucial. By allowing the client to express themselves freely, the nurse not only supports their emotional needs but also paves the way for further therapeutic interventions if necessary.