The nurse is collecting data from a patient in an HCP's office. The patient was recently diagnosed with a chronic respiratory disorder and states, "I just cannot seem to enjoy any activity anymore." The patient's clothes are baggy and wrinkled, and the patient reports an inability to sleep. Which question does the nurse need to ask first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's statement about not enjoying any activity anymore, along with the observation of baggy and wrinkled clothes and reported inability to sleep, suggests possible depression. The most immediate concern is the patient's safety, so the nurse should first ask about thoughts of self-harm, which is addressed by asking, "Do you think about hurting yourself?" This question directly assesses the risk of suicide, which is a priority.

The Nurse Is Collecting Data from a Patient in an HCP's