The nurse is assessing a child with depression. What is the best approach the nurse will use when assessing the child's socialization?

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3. By saying "Tell me about the friends you enjoy being with," the nurse is using therapeutic communication and encouraging the patient to talk about a positive aspect of life. The question "How many friends do you have at school?" can be perceived as probing and intrusive, which is nontherapeutic. Also, this type of question is close-ended, limiting the amount of detail the patient can provide. "So you spend a lot of time with your friends?" is also a close-ended question, not allowing the patient to elaborate on the answer. "You seem like a person who would have a lot of friends," is a judgmental observation that may also be viewed as a stereotypical comment.

The Nurse Is Assessing a Child with Depression