The patient has been depressed and the physician plans to begin treatment with an antidepressant medication.In performing the initial assessment,what is the most important for the nurse to ask?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most important question for the nurse to ask in this situation is whether the patient has had any thoughts of killing themselves. This is an essential part of assessing the patient's risk for suicide and determining their level of safety. While the other questions are also important, they are not as critical in the initial assessment of a depressed patient who may be at risk for suicidal ideation.

The Patient Has Been Depressed and the Physician Plans to Begin