Which of the following nursing actions would be most appropriate? Joe who is very depressed exhibits psychomotor retardation, flat affect, and apathy. The nurse in charge observes Joe be in need of grooming and hygiene.
A. Waiting until the client’s family can participate in the client’s care.
B. Asking the client if he is ready to take a shower.
C. Explaining the importance of hygiene to the client.
D. Stating to the client that it’s time for him to take a shower.

The best answer to this is letter D. There are moments when simply asking the client to take a shower will not be enough since the client would not want to take a shower anyway. A client who is depressed is often full of thoughts that he will not be able to comprehend anymore what other things he is supposed to do.

The patient does not have enough energy in order to do various things anymore so even if he is suggested to take a bath, he will not do anything. There are some depressed people who may stay in their rooms the whole time without doing anything at all.

The nurse should state that the patient needs to take a shower and will then proceed in assisting the patient. This might help the patient feel better because he feels fresher and cleaner after.