The nurse is conducting a mental health assessment and plans to begin by taking the patient’s health history. Which behavioral clues does the nurse observe upon entering the room? Select all that apply.

If the patient’s affect matches the situation , If the patient is dressed appropriately for the weather, If the patient is using a monotonous or expressive tone of voice, If the patient does or does not look up to greet the nurse when she enters. Deviations from expected, normal behavior (as described in western cultures) can indicate ongoing mental health concerns. If a patient’s affect, emotional state, or clothing choices do not reflect the situation and season at hand, he or she may be struggling with mental health. If the patient fails to make eye contact and uses only a monotonous voice, he or she may be exhibiting symptoms of depression. These observations aid in completing a complete assessment of the patient. The initial presence or absence of family is not a behavioral clue provided by the patient, although it should be documented.

The nurse is conducting a mental health assessment and plans to b...

Category: Psychosocial Integrity
Difficulty: 7

Topics: Communication & Documentation Mental Health Disorders Assessment Health Promotion Health Screening

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