Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

A client in the clinic reports an inability to express anger, even in difficult situations. What should the nurse assess the client for?

1. Overwhelming happiness

2. Depression

3. Low self-esteem

4. Social anxiety

The correct answer is: Depression

When assessing a client who reports an inability to express anger, it is essential to consider the connection between emotional expression and mental health conditions. A common consequence of being unable to express anger is that it can lead to feelings of frustration or helplessness, which may manifest as symptoms of depression. Individuals with depression may experience a diminished emotional range, finding it challenging to express not just anger, but other emotions as well. They might feel a sense of hopelessness or an internalized emotional state that prevents them from articulating their feelings, including anger. This inability to express anger could stem from negative self-perceptions or the fear of how these emotions might affect their relationships, which are often symptoms related to a depressive state. Therefore, assessing for depression in this context is crucial as it will guide further interventions and therapeutic approaches to help the client manage their emotional expressions more effectively.