During a psychiatric assessment, the nurse observes a patient's facial expressions that are without emotion. The patient says, "Life feels so hopeless to me. I've been feeling sad for several months." How should the nurse document the patient's affect and mood?

A) Affect depressed; mood flat
B) Affect flat; mood depressed
C) Affect labile; mood euphoric
D) Affect and mood are incongruent

Psychiatric Assessment

A comprehensive evaluation of a person’s mental health, involving the examination of a person's psychological, biological, and social factors.

Facial Expressions

External manifestations of emotions or feelings which can be observed on a person's face.

Mood Depressed

A persistent feeling of sadness or a lack of interest, which can affect thoughts, behavior, feelings, and a sense of well-being.