A family has presented at a community mental health clinic. The mother reports that the children ages 8 and 10 are 'not doing well since their father died three months ago.' The nurse demonstrates an understanding of the goals of a family mental health assessment when initially:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because arranging for the family members to attend age-appropriate grief management groups aligns with the goal of assessing and addressing the family's mental health needs following a significant loss. This approach recognizes the impact of the father's death on the children and the mother, providing them with support and coping strategies. It acknowledges the importance of addressing grief and promoting healthy coping mechanisms within the family unit.
Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not directly address the family's mental health needs in the context of grief and loss. Assessing the mother's ability to provide physical care, encouraging discussions with teachers, and observing interactions are important but do not specifically target the emotional and psychological impact of the father's death on the family.