Reference no: EM133856040
Case Vignette
The Powers family consists of Leo, Greta, their two school-age children, and a new infant son. The couple has been married for 15 years. Leo is an accountant; Greta taught school before the children were born but has been a full-time homemaker for10 years. The older children are doing well academically and are active in sports, music, and other extracurricular activities. The 5-month-old baby is thriving. Although Leo helps at night and on weekends, most housekeeping and child-related responsibilities are Greta's.
During the past 6 weeks, Greta has been in a "funk" that is worsening. Although the baby has started sleeping through the night, occasional insomnia for Greta has turned into difficulty sleeping almost every night. Unfortunately, she is sleeping for 3 to 4 hours during the day while the baby naps and is sometimes having difficulty waking to attend to him. Greta has been neglecting chores and meals, with the oldest child taking on more duties and Leo cooking dinners. During the last 2 weeks, Greta has been neglecting personal hygiene and has stopped attending her children's games and school functions.
At Leo's urging, Greta visits her physician, who refers her to a mental health clinic because of the increasing evidence of postpartum depression. Leo goes with her to her first appointment. While the nurse is taking the history, Greta states tearfully, "What good am I? What kind of mother and wife am I?"
Reflection and Critical Thinking
• What immediately concerns you about the information provided?
• What measures can the family take immediately to help Greta? What long-term issues may be important to address?
• What other information would the nurse and health care team need to discuss and explore?
Psychiatric- mental health nursing. Wanda K Mohr 8th edition