A 65-year-old client with clinical depression is being assessed by a RN.

The client is reserved and

withdrawn. The health care staff caring for the client has reported lack of communication and angry
outbursts.

A. what are the ways in which the nurse can elicit information and communicate with the client?

This is a challenging situation since it will put your patience to the test, but as a nurse, you
should be able to convey your feelings and provide assistance; this will apply therapeutic
communication. When dealing with a depressed client, the first step is to establish a sense of trust by
expressing that you care and are here to listen; but, because the patient also has angry outbursts, this
will take time. You must be patient and in command of the situation. Maintain a composed public
persona to prevent patient dissatisfaction. Give also the patient silence treatment; this allows the
patient to ponder and realize since silence treatment also helps to overcome conflict. Following this, the
patient will gradually respond and establish a connection of trust; it will share his/her story and
problems, listen to them with expression of interest so the patient feels heard and understood, and with
this you will be able to elicit information. In addition, you should respond in an impartial manner.
Communicate in a positive, encouraging manner, also speak slowly and clearly because the patient is
also a senior citizen as this will make him feel comfortable.