Question

The nurse is caring for an older adult client who has reported symptoms suggestive of depression. Which of the following questions asked by the nurse is most therapeutic in assessing the client's perception of the impact depression has had on her life?

1. What does it mean to be depressed?
2. How does being depressed make you feel?
3. Were you happy before becoming depressed?
4. What makes you think that you are depressed?

Answer 1

The most therapeutic question for assessing the client's perception of the impact of depression on her life is: **2. How does being depressed make you feel?**

Step-by-step explanation:

In therapeutic communication, it is essential to explore the client's subjective experience of their condition. Option 2, "How does being depressed make you feel?" directly addresses the emotional aspect of depression, encouraging the client to express and reflect on their feelings. This open-ended question allows the client to articulate the impact of depression on their life, providing valuable insights into their emotional state and facilitating a deeper understanding of their experience.

Option 1, "What does it mean to be depressed?" may be more abstract and could lead to a definition rather than an exploration of the client's personal experience. Option 3, "Were you happy before becoming depressed?" assumes a binary state of happiness or depression, which may oversimplify the client's emotional journey. Option 4, "What makes you think that you are depressed?" focuses on the cognitive aspect and might not elicit as much emotional depth as the chosen question in Option 2.

In summary, choosing the question that delves into the emotional impact of depression aligns with therapeutic communication principles, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the client's subjective experience.

Answer 2

The most therapeutic question for assessing an older adult client's experience with depression is "How does being depressed make you feel?", which allows for a deeper understanding of the client's individual emotional impact (option 2).

Step-by-step explanation:

The most therapeutic question a nurse can ask an older adult client who is reporting symptoms of depression is: "How does being depressed make you feel?" This question focuses on the client's personal experiences and emotions, providing insight into the impact that depression has on their daily life, rather than seeking a definition or confirmation of their depressive state. It encourages the patient to express their feelings and elaborate on how their condition affects them, which is important for identifying the specific needs and appropriate treatments for the client.

Older adults might face unique challenges related to depression in later life, such as social isolation or grief over loss of loved ones. Effective communication and understanding from caregivers, including nurses, are pivotal for accurate assessment and management of depression in older adult populations.

Hence, the answer is option 2.