Nokea
The mental health nurse is about to conduct an admissions interview with an older adult being admitted for depression. Which action demonstrates an understanding of the appropriate integration of the mental health status examination into an assessment interview?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because integrating mental health questions among general assessment questions allows for a holistic understanding of the client's overall health. By including mental health questions throughout the interview, the nurse can gather information in a more natural and comprehensive manner. This approach helps in establishing a rapport with the client and avoids stigmatizing mental health issues. Conducting the interview in a quiet, private location (choice A) is important for confidentiality but does not specifically address the integration of mental health questions. Informing the client about the mental health assessment (choice B) is essential for informed consent but does not address the integration aspect. Asking mental health questions at the beginning of the interview (choice C) may disrupt the flow and rapport-building process. Thus, choice D is the most appropriate for a comprehensive assessment.