A nurse is caring for a client who has a depressive disorder. The client states, 'I don't always go to bed at night, so I get in trouble for falling asleep at work.' Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?

The correct answer is C: Keep a sleep diary to promote a consistent sleep schedule. This intervention is appropriate because it helps the client track their sleep patterns, identify any disruptions, and establish a routine for better sleep hygiene. By maintaining a sleep diary, the client and the nurse can pinpoint factors contributing to the sleep disturbances and work together to develop a plan to address them. This intervention focuses on addressing the underlying issue of inconsistent sleep patterns, which can be crucial in managing depressive symptoms.

Option A (Take a 1-hour nap every day) may not be the best choice as it could potentially further disrupt the client's sleep pattern and lead to difficulties falling asleep at night. Option B (Exercise late in the day, preferably before bedtime) may also not be ideal as exercising close to bedtime can actually stimulate the body and make it harder to fall asleep. Option D (Discontinue any medication until your sleep disruption is addressed) is inappropriate as abruptly stopping medication can have negative consequences and should only be done