Mr Tanner is euthymic at present. However, I am concerned that a possible drop in mood may occur over the coming weeks. I have asked the ward staff to continue to monitor his mood closely until he goes home. If home based rehab goes ahead we’ll need to make sure team members visiting Mr Tanner remain vigilent for dysthymia.
As his expressive dysphasia begins to improve and he becomes more aware of his communicative restrictions, he may become frustrated. The same could apply to how quickly he recovers use of his right hand and is able to do simple tasks for himself.
Depression can prevent a stroke patient from fully participating in rehab activities, leading to sub-optimal outcomes and premature discharge from rehab programs. Early detection of a depressed mood/anhedonia is therefore very important.
