A mental health nurse is preparing a client who has chronic anxiety for discharge from the psychiatric unit. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the client's discharge plan?

Choice B rationale:

Male gender is a significant risk factor for suicide. Men are more likely to die by suicide than women, with rates being approximately 3.5 times higher in men than women in the United States.

Several factors contribute to this increased risk:

Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues. This may be due to societal expectations of masculinity, which often discourage men from expressing emotions or seeking help for emotional distress.

Men are more likely to use more lethal means of suicide. For example, men are more likely to use firearms, which have a higher fatality rate than other methods such as poisoning or cutting.

Men may be more likely to experience social isolation and loneliness. These factors can increase the risk of suicide, as they can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.

Men may be more likely to experience substance abuse problems. Substance abuse can increase the risk of suicide, as it can impair judgment and impulse control, and can also lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.

Choice C rationale:

Recent marriage is not a risk factor for suicide. In fact, some studies have shown that marriage may have a protective effect against suicide.

However, it's important to note that relationship problems, including separation, divorce, or domestic violence, can be significant risk factors for suicide.

Choice D rationale:

Age greater than 55 is a risk factor for suicide. Suicide rates are highest among older adults, particularly among men aged 85 and older.

Several factors contribute to this increased risk:

Older adults are more likely to experience chronic health conditions and pain. These conditions can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, and can also make it more difficult to cope with stress.

Older adults are more likely to experience social isolation and loneliness. These factors can increase the risk of suicide, as they can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.

Older adults are more likely to experience bereavement and loss. The loss of a spouse, family members, or friends can be a major stressor, and can increase the risk of suicide.

Choice E rationale:

Diagnosis of schizophrenia is a significant risk factor for suicide.

People with schizophrenia are approximately 10 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. Several factors contribute to this increased risk:

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that can cause significant distress and impairment.

People with schizophrenia may experience hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. These symptoms can be very distressing and can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.

People with schizophrenia may also experience social isolation and stigma. These factors can further increase the risk of suicide.

Choice A rationale: Having the client join a therapy group immediately upon admission might not be the most therapeutic action. The client is experiencing panic-level anxiety, which is characterized by a heightened state of arousal and fear. Introducing the client to a group setting at this time could potentially increase their anxiety levels due to the unfamiliar environment and people.

Choice B rationale: Suggesting that the client rest in bed might seem like a good idea, as rest can help reduce stress and anxiety. However, this action alone might not be the most therapeutic for a client experiencing panic-level anxiety. The client might continue to experience high levels of anxiety while alone in their room, and without the presence of a healthcare professional, they might not have the necessary support to manage their anxiety.

Choice C rationale: Remaining with the client for a while is the most therapeutic action at this time. The presence of the nurse can provide a sense of safety and security for the client, which can help reduce their anxiety levels. The nurse can also use this time to assess the client’s anxiety levels, provide reassurance, and implement appropriate interventions to help manage the client’s anxiety.

Choice D rationale: Medicating the client with a sedative might help reduce the client’s anxiety levels, but it should not be the first action taken. Medication should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes non-pharmacological interventions, such as providing a safe and supportive environment, using therapeutic communication, and teaching the client coping strategies.