In restorative care, which finding should be reported to the nurse?

In restorative care, which finding should be reported to the nurse?

• A. Family visits
• B. Amount of TV watched
• C. Call light use frequency
• D. Signs of depression

Answer: (D)

Noticing changes in mood and emotional well-being is essential in restorative care because mental health directly influences participation in therapy, energy levels, sleep, appetite, and safety. Signs of depression—persistent sadness, withdrawal from activities, hopelessness, statements of worthlessness, or a noticeable drop in engagement with therapy—signal a need for nursing assessment and possible intervention. Reporting these signs promptly allows the nurse to evaluate for clinical depression, adjust the care plan, and arrange appropriate support or referrals. In contrast, family visits are a normal social factor, the amount of TV watched is a routine leisure activity, and while frequent call-light use can indicate safety needs, it’s the depressive mood that most clearly requires nursing involvement for assessment and care planning.

Noticing changes in mood and emotional well-being is essential in restorative care because mental health directly influences participation in therapy, energy levels, sleep, appetite, and safety. Signs of depression—persistent sadness, withdrawal from activities, hopelessness, statements of worthlessness, or a noticeable drop in engagement with therapy—signal a need for nursing assessment and possible intervention. Reporting these signs promptly allows the nurse to evaluate for clinical depression, adjust the care plan, and arrange appropriate support or referrals. In contrast, family visits are a normal social factor, the amount of TV watched is a routine leisure activity, and while frequent call-light use can indicate safety needs, it’s the depressive mood that most clearly requires nursing involvement for assessment and care planning.