A disheveled patient in the acute phase of major depressive disorder is withdrawn, has psychomotor retardation, and has not showered for several days. The nurse will
A) bring up the issue at the community meeting.
B) calmly tell the patient, "You must bathe daily."
C) make observations about the patient's poor personal hygiene.
D) firmly and neutrally assist the patient with showering.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When patients are unable to perform self-care activities, staff must assist them rather than ignore the issue. Better grooming increases self-esteem. The patient needs assistance, not simply making an observation. Calmly telling the patient to bathe daily and bringing up the issue at a community meeting are punitive.

A Disheveled Patient in the Acute Phase of Major Depressive