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How Are You, Really?

Start of Care · Episode 8

How Are You, Really?

Frank jokes his way through every question. Brian asks one more.

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Key takeawayScreen what you can't seeThe start-of-care assessment includes screening for pain, mood, memory and thinking, not only the reason for the referral. Ask the standard screening questions even when the patient seems cheerful. Listen, respond with kindness, and report concerns to the physician. Depression after surgery or illness is common, and treatable.

In this scene

Brian: Frank, how's your mood been since you got home?

Frank: Mood? I'm fine. Can't complain. Well, I can, but nobody listens.

Brian: Over the last two weeks, have you felt down, or lost interest in things you usually enjoy?

Watch the episode to see what happens next.

Questions to think about

  • Frank jokes and says he's fine. You:
  • The assessment also screens for:
  • Frank says he feels useless. You:

About this series

For home health nurses and therapists: the start-of-care in-home assessment. Timing, patient rights, homebound status, an accurate assessment, every medicine in the home, home safety, caregivers and emergency plans, screening, the patient's own goals, and closing the loop with the physician. Follow your agency's policies and the Medicare Conditions of Participation. See the whole series

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