A client admitted to the psychiatric unit diagnosed with major depression wants to sleep during the day, refuses to take a bath, and refuses to eat. Which nursing intervention should the nurse implement first?

A. Establish a structured routine for the client to follow. Establishing a consistent routine is essential to help clients with depression manage their symptoms and create a sense of structure and control. It can also help them feel more motivated to engage in activities. B. Arrange a meeting with the family to discuss the client's situation. While family involvement is important, it is not the first priority. Immediate care interventions are needed to address the client’s current needs. C. Assess the client's ability to communicate with the other staff members. While communication is important, the priority is to address the client’s physical and emotional needs by establishing a routine. D. Administer the client's antidepressant medication as prescribed. Medication management is crucial, but the first step is to engage the client in a structured routine to help them begin functioning.