During intake assessment, the nurse is most likely to hear a client with major depressive disorder say which of the following statements about depression? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

Choice A Reason: Is not responding to other clients on the unit.

While a lack of response to other clients can indicate social withdrawal and isolation, which are common in depressive episodes, it does not necessarily indicate an immediate risk to the client’s safety. This behavior is concerning but does not require the highest priority intervention compared to other behaviors that may indicate a risk of self-harm or suicidal ideation.

Choice B Reason: Is refusing to take their prescribed mood stabilizer.

Refusing medication is a significant concern as it can lead to worsening of symptoms and destabilization of the client’s condition. However, this behavior does not indicate an immediate risk to the client’s safety. The nurse should address this issue promptly, but it is not the highest priority compared to behaviors that suggest suicidal ideation.

Choice C Reason: Angrily argues with another client stating, “God is dead.”

This behavior indicates agitation and potential conflict with others, which can be problematic in a clinical setting. However, it does not directly suggest an immediate risk to the client’s safety. The nurse should intervene to de-escalate the situation and provide support, but this is not the highest priority compared to signs of suicidal ideation.

Choice D Reason: States, “There is no future when you feel so depressed.”

This statement is highly concerning as it indicates feelings of hopelessness and potential suicidal ideation. Expressions of hopelessness and statements about the future being bleak are significant risk factors for suicide. The nurse should prioritize this behavior for immediate intervention to assess the client’s risk of self-harm and provide appropriate support and safety measures.

Choice A Reason: Perform a neurological assessment on a patient in seclusion to compare the nurse’s findings

This task is an example of overdelegation. Performing a neurological assessment requires specialized knowledge and skills that are beyond the scope of practice for unlicensed assistive personnel. Such assessments should be conducted by a licensed nurse or healthcare provider to ensure accuracy and appropriate clinical judgment.

Choice B Reason: Play cards with 3 patients during unstructured time

This task is appropriate for a PCT. Engaging patients in recreational activities like playing cards does not require specialized clinical skills and falls within the scope of practice for unlicensed assistive personnel. It helps in providing social interaction and can be beneficial for the patients’ mental health.

Choice C Reason: Review follow-up care with a patient about to be discharged

This task is an example of overdelegation. Reviewing follow-up care involves providing important information about the patient’s ongoing treatment and care plan, which requires clinical knowledge and the ability to answer any questions the patient may have. This responsibility should be handled by a licensed nurse or healthcare provider.

Choice D Reason: Set a goal for the day for a patient with a borderline personality disorder

This task is also an example of overdelegation. Setting therapeutic goals for patients, especially those with complex mental health conditions like borderline personality disorder, requires clinical expertise and an understanding of the patient’s treatment plan. This should be done by a licensed nurse or mental health professional.

Choice E Reason: Obtain a weight on a patient with bipolar disorder in a hypomanic state

This task is appropriate for a PCT. Obtaining a patient’s weight is a routine task that does not require specialized clinical skills and falls within the scope of practice for unlicensed assistive personnel. It is a straightforward task that can be safely delegated.