A client has been diagnosed with depression and has a history of suicide attempts. What intervention is essential for the nurse to implement?

Choice A rationale:

Modifying the plan of care based on the patient's current status is a fundamental aspect of the evaluation phase. Patients' conditions can change, and the plan of care should be flexible enough to adapt to their evolving needs. By making necessary adjustments, the nurse ensures that the patient continues to receive appropriate and effective care.

Choice B rationale:

Comparing the patient's current status with baseline data only is insufficient for a comprehensive evaluation. Baseline data is useful for establishing a starting point, but it doesn't account for changes that may have occurred since then. Effective evaluation involves considering both baseline data and the patient's current condition.

Choice C rationale:

Disregarding the patient's feedback about their care is not appropriate during the evaluation phase. Patient feedback provides valuable insights into their experience, concerns, and whether the current plan of care is meeting their needs. Ignoring their feedback can lead to unaddressed issues and a lack of patient-centered care.

Choice D rationale:

Documenting outcomes without assessing the patient's response undermines the purpose of the evaluation phase. Evaluation involves not only documenting outcomes but also assessing how the patient has responded to interventions. This assessment informs whether the outcomes are positive, need adjustment, or require a different approach.

Collaborate with the patient and the healthcare team.

Choice A rationale:

Prioritize long-term goals over short-term outcomes. This choice is not the most appropriate principle to consider in the planning phase for a patient with suicidal ideation. While setting long-term goals is important, immediate safety and addressing the patient's emotional state take precedence in this situation.

Choice B rationale:

Develop a rigid and unchangeable plan of care. This choice is not suitable for a patient with suicidal ideation. Flexibility in the plan of care is essential to accommodate the patient's changing emotional state and needs. A rigid plan might not effectively address the dynamic nature of suicidal ideation.

Choice C rationale:

Focus only on the patient's physical health. This choice is not comprehensive enough for a patient with suicidal ideation. While physical health is important, addressing the patient's emotional well-being, safety, and mental health concerns should be a priority in the plan of care.

Choice D rationale:

Collaborate with the patient and the healthcare team. This choice is the most appropriate principle to consider. Collaboration involves actively involving the patient in the care planning process and working with the healthcare team to develop a holistic plan that addresses the patient's emotional, psychological, and safety needs. Inclusion of the patient's perspective enhances engagement and increases the likelihood of successful interventions.