During the patient interview, there are a number of opportunities to provide patient education and empathy. The opportunities listed below are those identified by nursing experts to be of particular importance to this patient. A Model Statement is provided as an example of an appropriate response to each opportunity.
Description: Ms. Harris describes the symptoms of her depression. |
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What brings you here today? |
Question |
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My son brought me in today on account of my exhaustion. I’ve been feeling very weak and very tired. Most mornings I don’t really feel like getting out of bed. |
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Am sorry about that |
Empathize |
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I’m grateful for that. |
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Model Statement: “I’m sorry to hear that you haven’t been feeling well. Your weakness and fatigue may actually be symptoms of depression which are interfering with your daily life. I would like to work with you and the doctor to refer you to someone who can provide longer-term help so that you can manage your symptoms.” |
Description: Ms. Harris reports passive suicidal ideation. |
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Any suicidal ideation? Depression Abigail Harris Focused Exam shadow health Education & Empathy |
Question |
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No, no. It’s not like that. I’ve never wanted to hurt myself before, it’s just. . . if this is it, then I don’t want to have to live with it year in and year out. It’s exhausting. |
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Am sorry about that |
Empathize |
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It’s nice to hear you get it. |
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Model Statement: “When you say that you would rather be dead, this is suicidal thinking. I am sorry you feel this way. I would like to let you know that you have options, and we can focus on ways to help you move forward. I would like to refer you to counseling, and resources like a national suicide prevention hotline.” |
Description: Ms. Harris expresses that she assumes it is normal to feel and function this way because of her age. |
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How long have you been feeling exhausted and weak? (Clarified to: How long have you been feeling fatigued?) |
Question |
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I’ve been tired for quite a while, but I’ve always been able to go about my day alright until about a month ago. It’s been getting worse this last week too… some mornings I just stay in bed. I guess I’m just slowing down more and more, should be expected at my age I suppose. (Clarified to: how long I have been fatigued) |
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Do you feel fatigued everyday? (Clarified to: When are you most tired?) |
Question |
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Model Statement: “While some older adults experience weakness and fatigue as they age, your symptoms may be exacerbated because of your depression. I believe that depression is worsening your symptoms. After treatment, you may feel better and have more energy. We will refer you to resources for counseling and treatment that may help you feel better.” Depression Abigail Harris Focused Exam shadow health Education & Empathy |
Description: Mrs. Harris has been taking her diabetes medication without much consideration for her reduced meal consumption. |
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How do you manage your diabetes? |
Question |
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I have an insulin regimen that my son helps me with. I usually take some of it with meals, but I haven’t been very hungry so I just take it around those times. |
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To better manage your diabetes, you need a proper diet, medication, and exercise |
Educate |
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Oh, okay. Thank you. |
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Model Statement: “I know you said you don’t feel much like eating. To feel your best and manage your diabetes, you need a proper balance of diet, medication, and activity. It can be unsafe to take your medication if you’re not eating because it can cause low blood sugar.” Depression Abigail Harris Focused Exam shadow health Education & Empathy |