An adult daughter brings a patient to the gerontology clinic and reports that the patient has become increasingly withdrawn and no longer goes out during the day.What response by the nurse is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's increased withdrawal and avoidance of going out during the day could possibly indicate isolation or depression, but it could also be related to feelings of insecurity or fear. Assessing the patient's feelings of safety at home is a necessary first step in identifying any potential factors that may be contributing to the patient's behavior. Administering a Mini-Mental State Examination or asking the patient why this is happening may not yield any useful information if there are underlying factors, such as abuse or neglect, that are not being addressed. While determining if abuse is occurring is also important, it should not be the initial response without more information about the patient's overall wellbeing.

An Adult Daughter Brings a Patient to the Gerontology Clinic