Question

A 49-year-old client is experiencing problems with depression. She has come to the clinic showing signs of malnutrition and fatigue. Which of the following is the best initial statement for the nurse to make in the assessment phase?

1. "How much weight have you lost over the past month?"
2. "Have you recently been experiencing menopausal symptoms?"
3. "Depression is something to expect at your age, and with assistance you will get better."
4. "Your depression is somewhat uncommon. Can you tell me what has happened recently to cause it?"

Answer 1

The best initial statement for the nurse to make in the assessment phase of a 49-year-old client experiencing problems with depression, malnutrition, and fatigue is to ask about the weight loss over the past month.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best initial statement for the nurse to make in the assessment phase of a 49-year-old client experiencing problems with depression, malnutrition, and fatigue would be option 1, "How much weight have you lost over the past month?" This question helps to assess the client's nutritional status and if there has been any significant weight loss, which is associated with depression.