A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has major depressive disorder. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse include in the plan of care?

A. Recommend the client spend time alone in his room. Social isolation can worsen depressive symptoms by increasing feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. Clients with major depressive disorder benefit from structured activities and social engagement, which help improve mood and prevent withdrawal. B. Offer the client low-protein snacks throughout the day. Clients with depression may experience changes in appetite and energy levels, but protein is essential for neurotransmitter function and overall health. Instead of low-protein snacks, balanced meals with adequate nutrients should be encouraged to support physical and mental well-being. C. Encourage the client to use positive self-talk. Negative thought patterns contribute to depressive symptoms, and cognitive-behavioral strategies such as positive self-talk help clients challenge and replace negative beliefs. Encouraging the client to engage in self-affirming statements can improve self-esteem and foster a more positive outlook. D. Suggest the client exercise before going to bed. While exercise is beneficial for mood regulation and depression management, engaging in physical activity right before bedtime can lead to increased alertness, potentially disrupting sleep. Exercise is best scheduled earlier in the day to maximize its mood-enhancing and sleep-promoting effects.