An older patient on chemotherapy is in the oncology clinic for follow-up.The nurse notes the patient appears depressed.What action by the nurse should occur first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should assess the patient for depression;however,prior to doing so,the nurse should review the patient's chemotherapy.Some chemotherapy drugs can cause depression,and it may be a confusing picture.Depending on the results of the screening,asking about self-harm may be appropriate.Inquiring how the patient is feeling is appropriate,but it is not the most important action.

An Older Patient on Chemotherapy Is in the Oncology Clinic