Question

A client who has a diagnosis of depression is attending group therapy. During the group meeting, the nurse asks each member to identify one goal for the day. When it is the client's turn, they do not respond. Which of the following actions should the nurse take before repeating the request to the client?

A. Allow more time and observe the client silently
B. Encourage the client to share their goal in private after the group
C. Skip the client and move on to the next person
D. Call on the client again, emphasizing the importance of participation

Answer 1

In group therapy with a client who has depression, if they do not respond when asked to identify a goal for the day, the nurse should encourage them to share their goal in private after the group.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client who has a diagnosis of depression is attending group therapy and does not respond when asked to identify a goal for the day, the nurse should take the following action before repeating the request to the client:

B. Encourage the client to share their goal in private after the group.

By encouraging the client to share their goal in private, the nurse respects the client's right to privacy and allows them an opportunity to express themselves without feeling pressured in a group setting. This approach can help build trust and rapport between the client and the nurse, which is important for their therapeutic relationship. It also ensures that the client's needs are still addressed and their participation is encouraged, even if they are not comfortable sharing their goal in front of the group.