A disheveled patient with severe depression and psychomotor retardation has not bathed for several days. The nurse should:

A) avoid forcing the issue.
B) bring up the issue at the community meeting.
C) calmly tell the patient, "You must bathe daily."
D) firmly and neutrally assist the patient with showering.

Psychomotor Retardation

A slowing down of thought and physical movements, common in severe depression and other psychiatric disorders.

Community Meeting

A gathering of members of a community to discuss issues, share information, and make decisions regarding local matters or interests.

Daily Bathing

The practice of washing the body in a bath or shower every day as part of personal hygiene routines.