A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a 14-year-old who has anorexia nervosa.

• The client was brought to the emergency department by a parent due to fainting at home earlier this evening.
• The parent reports that the client has been worried about their weight and has been refusing to eat.
• The parent also reports the client has been spending several hours at the local gym.
• Vital signs were obtained and labs were drawn as requested by the provider.

Which of the following 5 assessment findings require immediate follow-up?

The correct answer(s) is/are:

C. Telling his parents that he doesn't want to talk about the suicide attempt.

Rationale:

Choice A: Planning to give his Xbox console to his best friend.

While giving away possessions can be a sign of hopelessness or detachment, in this case, it could also be interpreted as a gesture of closure or wanting to leave something meaningful behind for a loved one. It doesn't necessarily indicate ongoing suicidal intent.

Choice B: Stating that he wants to be with his peers more than with his parents.

This desire for social connection and autonomy is actually a positive sign in a post-suicidal attempt adolescent. It demonstrates a shift towards seeking support from outside the family unit and engaging with life beyond the immediate aftermath of the attempt.

Choice C: Telling his parents that he doesn't want to talk about the suicide attempt. This reluctance to discuss the attempt can be a red flag for several reasons:

Avoidance: Suppressing or avoiding thoughts and feelings related to the attempt can indicate a struggle to cope with the emotional trauma and potentially harboring lingering suicidal ideation.

Isolation: Withdrawing from open communication about the event can isolate the adolescent further, hindering the support system and potentially increasing the risk of reattempt.

Underlying distress: The inability to talk about the event may suggest unresolved emotional distress, unresolved conflicts, or ongoing stressors that could contribute to suicidal thoughts.

Therefore, while not wanting to talk doesn't definitively signify current suicidal intent, it warrants further exploration by the nurse to understand the underlying reasons behind the avoidance and ensure appropriate support and safety measures are in place.

Choice D: Preferring to eat his meals while watching TV.

This behavior is relatively neutral and doesn't directly suggest ongoing suicidal intent. While it might indicate depression or low motivation, it's not a specific indicator of suicide risk.

Conclusion:

Based on the rationale above, "telling his parents that he doesn't want to talk about the suicide attempt" (Choice C) is the most concerning behavior that suggests the adolescent might still have suicidal intent. It's crucial for the nurse to address this reluctance with empathy and understanding, exploring the underlying reasons and ensuring continued monitoring and support for the adolescent.

Rationale for Choice A:

Pacing can be a physical manifestation of anxiety. It allows individuals to release some of the nervous energy that builds up during anxious moments. Restricting this behavior can potentially escalate anxiety.

Walking with the client can provide a sense of safety and support. It demonstrates to the client that they are not alone in their anxiety and that the nurse is there to help them.

Gradually slowing the pace of the walk can help to regulate the client's breathing and heart rate. This can have a calming effect on both the body and mind.

Walking can also be a form of distraction. It can help to take the client's mind off of their worries and focus on the present moment.

Walking can help to release endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. This can help to counteract some of the negative emotions associated with anxiety.

Rationale for Choice B:

Escorting the client to their room may be perceived as restrictive and controlling. This could potentially increase the client's anxiety.

Removing the client from the public area of the unit may isolate them from other people and activities. This could make them feel more alone and anxious.

Rationale for Choice C:

Allowing the client to pace alone may not be safe. The client could potentially become agitated or injure themselves.

Pacing alone does not provide the client with any support or guidance. This could make it more difficult for them to manage their anxiety.

Rationale for Choice D:

Instructing the client to sit down and stop pacing may be perceived as dismissive and unhelpful. It does not address the underlying causes of the client's anxiety.

Forcing the client to stop pacing could potentially escalate their anxiety. This could lead to agitation, aggression, or other negative behaviors.