A nurse is assessing a client for potential suicidal ideation. The client says, "I've been thinking a lot about death lately. I wonder what it's like to not exist anymore." What would be an appropriate response by the nurse?

"You shouldn't dwell on those thoughts. They're not healthy.".

"I can see that you're feeling down, but these thoughts will pass.".

"Tell me more about what you're experiencing.".

"Just remember that things will get better soon.".

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale:

Dismissing the client's thoughts and labeling them as unhealthy might cause the client to feel judged or reluctant to share further. It's important to approach the situation with openness and empathy.

Choice B rationale:

While it's true that the client's thoughts might pass, this response doesn't address the client's feelings or encourage them to express themselves. It's important to engage in a more in-depth conversation to understand their emotions.

Choice C rationale:

Asking the client to elaborate on their thoughts and experiences opens the door for meaningful conversation and assessment. This response shows genuine interest in the client's well-being and allows the nurse to gather more information to determine the appropriate level of support.

Choice D rationale:

Telling the client that things will get better soon might come across as dismissive of their current struggles. It's important to validate their emotions and explore their feelings further rather than offering premature reassurances.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Advising the client to keep their feelings to themselves is not an appropriate intervention in this situation. Suicidal ideation is a serious concern, and keeping feelings hidden could potentially lead to the client not receiving the necessary support and intervention they need to stay safe.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the client to isolate themselves until they feel better is not an appropriate intervention either. Isolation can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and increase the risk of acting on suicidal thoughts. Connecting with the client and providing a supportive environment is crucial.

Choice C rationale:

Asking the client directly if they are thinking about harming themselves is the most appropriate intervention. This approach helps the nurse assess the severity of the situation, open a dialogue about the client's feelings, and determine the level of risk. Direct communication allows for a better understanding of the client's mental state and the need for further intervention.

Choice D rationale:

Providing the client with alcohol or drugs to help them cope is a dangerous and inappropriate intervention. Substance use can further impair judgment and increase the risk of acting on suicidal thoughts. This action also fails to address the underlying issues contributing to the client's distress.

A. Psychological needs are more important than physiological needs. B. Social isolation takes precedence over impaired coping. C. Physiological needs are more important than psychological needs. D. Grieving is considered the highest priority diagnosis.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Psychological needs are more important than physiological needs. This statement contradicts Maslow's hierarchy of needs. According to Maslow's theory, physiological needs, such as air, water, food, and shelter, are at the base of the hierarchy and must be satisfied before addressing higher-level psychological needs.

Choice B rationale:

Social isolation takes precedence over impaired coping. While social isolation can indeed have a significant impact on a person's well-being, Maslow's hierarchy places physiological needs as the foundation. Without satisfying basic physiological needs, addressing higher-level psychological and social needs becomes less effective.

Choice C rationale:

Physiological needs are more important than psychological needs. This choice aligns with Maslow's hierarchy of needs. The hierarchy starts with physiological needs as the most fundamental, followed by safety, belongingness and love, esteem, and finally, self-actualization. A person's physiological needs (like breathing, food, water, sleep) must be met before psychological needs (such as self-esteem, achievement) can be effectively addressed.

Choice D rationale:

Grieving is considered the highest priority diagnosis. Grieving, while important, isn't necessarily the highest priority diagnosis according to Maslow's hierarchy. It falls under psychological and emotional needs, which are secondary to physiological needs. Urgent physiological needs take precedence over emotional needs in this context.

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A nurse is assessing a client for potential suicidal ideation. The client says, "I've been thinking a lot about death lately. I wonder what it's like to not exist anymore." What would be an appropriate response by the nurse?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with a history of substance use disorder and recent job loss is exhibiting signs of suicidal ideation. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate in this situation?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client is being assessed for nursing diagnoses related to suicidal ideation. Which nursing diagnosis prioritization principle should the nurse apply according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is providing care to a client who is displaying warning signs of suicidal ideation. Which interventions should the nurse prioritize to ensure the client's safety? (Select all that apply.).

A nurse is teaching a client's family about suicide prevention. What information should the nurse emphasize when discussing resources for help and support?

(Select all that apply): A nurse is analyzing data collected during the assessment phase for a patient at risk for suicide. Which of the following nursing diagnoses are commonly associated with suicidal ideation? Select three.

A nurse is analyzing data collected during the assessment phase for a patient at risk for suicide. What is the primary goal of the diagnosis phase in the nursing process?

A client is diagnosed with "Hopelessness." How would the nurse define this nursing diagnosis for a patient with suicidal ideation?

A nurse is working with a client who has suicidal ideation. Which intervention should the nurse implement to promote hope in the client?

A nurse is assessing a patient with suicidal ideation. Which step of the nursing process involves collecting data about the patient's physical and mental health status, suicide risk level, protective factors, coping skills, and support system?

A nurse is caring for a client who has expressed suicidal thoughts. Select all the interventions that the nurse should include in the implementation phase of the client's care.