A nurse is caring for a client who has depression following a recent job loss. Which of the following questions should the nurse ask to assess the client's personal coping skills?

Choice A reason:

Significant weight loss in a patient with major depressive disorder is a red flag for clinicians. It can signify a high risk of complications, including malnutrition, electrolyte imbalance, and weakened immunity. In the context of depression, it may also reflect a lack of self-care or even suicidal tendencies, which require immediate attention.

Choice B reason:

While markedly neglected hygiene is concerning and indicative of a patient's inability to perform daily self-care activities, it is not typically considered an immediate life-threatening issue. However, it does warrant intervention to prevent potential secondary infections or complications.

Choice C reason:

Psychomotor retardation is a symptom that can manifest in major depressive disorder, characterized by slowed physical movements and cognitive processing. Although it impacts the quality of life and daily functioning, it is not usually a direct indicator of an acute life-threatening condition.

Choice D reason:

Poor problem-solving skills are part of the cognitive symptoms of depression, affecting a patient's ability to manage daily tasks and make decisions. While this can significantly impact a patient's life, it is not as urgent as significant weight loss, which can have immediate physical health consequences.

Methadone is a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) option for clients who have opioid use disorder. Methadone reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and blocks the effects of other opioids. Methadone is dispensed through specialized clinics that have strict policies and regulations to ensure safety and compliance. The nurse should inform the client about these policies, such as the frequency of visits, urine testing, and counseling requirements, and help the client enroll in a methadone program if they are interested. The other options are not appropriate for this client. The CAGE questionnaire is a screening tool for alcohol use disorder, not opioid use disorder. Varenicline is a medication used to help clients quit smoking, not opioids. Emergency commitment is a legal process that allows involuntary hospitalization of clients who pose a danger to themselves or others due to a mental illness, which does not apply to this client.