CPCT/A Patient Care Exam Test Prep

Answer: C - Clients with depression are often overwhelmed by the intensity of their emotions. Talking about these feelings can be beneficial. Initially, the patient care technician should encourage the client to describe in detail how she is feeling. Sharing the burden with another person can provide some relief, so the patient care technician should listen attentively, encourage the client, and validate the intensity of the client's experience.

It is important at this point that the patient care technician does not attempt to "fix" the client's difficulties or offer clichés. These remarks belittle the client's feelings or make the client feel more guilty and worthless.