Page 2282 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

▪ Engage the client in gross motor activities (walking).

▪ Eventually bring the client into small group activities and then into large groups.

Nutrition

▪ Monitor nutritional intake and weight and provide nutritional support.
▪ Stay with the client during meals to accurately assess intake and to assist in
ensuring adequate nutritional intake.

Hygiene Care

▪ Monitor for general hygiene and self-care deficits; deficits may indicate
worsening depression.
▪ Provide prompts to encourage activities of daily living.

Sleep Patterns

▪ Monitor sleep patterns.
▪ Decrease environmental stimuli at bedtime.
▪ Encourage relaxation techniques.
▪ Spend time with the client before bedtime to increase comfort and minimize
feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Altered Thought Processes

▪ Remind the client of times when she or he felt better and was successful.
▪ Spend time with the client to convey the client’s worth and value.
▪ Encourage the client to discuss losses or changes in the life situation.
▪ Encourage the client to express sadness or anger and allow adequate time for
verbal responses.
▪ Respond to anger therapeutically.

Box 65-8

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): Indications for

Use

▪ When antidepressant medications have no effect
▪ When there is a need for a rapid definitive response, such as when a client is
suicidal or homicidal
▪ When the client is in extreme agitation or stupor
▪ When the risks of other treatments outweigh the risk of ECT

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