A nurse is assigned to care for several clients on a mental health unit. One of the clients who has suicidal ideation starts to verbalize clear intent to self harm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Request the client’s caregivers to remain with the client.
Notify the supervisor that the client requires one to one nursing observation
Assign the client to, a private room.
Increase the frequency of client assessment to hourly.
The Correct Answer is B
A) "Request the client’s caregivers to remain with the client.": While having caregivers present can provide some emotional support, this is not a sufficient or appropriate intervention when a client is actively expressing intent to self-harm. Caregivers may not be trained to recognize subtle changes in the client’s condition, and they might not be able to provide the level of safety required. It is essential that a trained nurse or professional provides direct observation.
B) "Notify the supervisor that the client requires one-to-one nursing observation.": This is the most appropriate and immediate action when a client verbalizes a clear intent to self-harm. One-to-one nursing observation ensures that the client is under constant surveillance, which is crucial for preventing harm and providing immediate intervention if the client attempts to act on their suicidal thoughts.
C) "Assign the client to a private room.": Assigning the client to a private room is not a recommended action when the client is expressing intent to self-harm. In fact, isolation in a private room could increase the risk of harm. The priority is to ensure the client is closely monitored, and being placed in a private room may reduce the ability for staff to observe and intervene as needed.
D) "Increase the frequency of client assessment to hourly.": While increasing the frequency of assessments is important, it is not sufficient to prevent self-harm in a client who is at immediate risk. The client needs continuous observation to ensure their safety. One-to-one nursing observation is more effective than periodic assessments for clients with active suicidal ideation or intent.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Administer granulocyte colony stimulating factor: Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is used to stimulate white blood cell production in certain conditions like neutropenia. However, in an infant with HIV, the primary concern is the HIV progression and monitoring for complications rather than administering G-CSF. It is not routinely used for infants with HIV unless there is a specific indication such as neutropenia.
B) Monitor the infant's lymphocyte count: Monitoring the infant’s lymphocyte count is an appropriate and essential intervention. HIV affects the immune system by targeting CD4+ T lymphocytes, so tracking the lymphocyte count will help gauge the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of the treatment. It is vital to assess the infant’s immune status, as HIV can lead to a weakened immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.
C) Initiate droplet precautions: Droplet precautions are typically required for infections like influenza or certain respiratory illnesses. HIV is not transmitted via droplets; it is primarily transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. Therefore, droplet precautions are not necessary for this infant.
D) Educate the infant's guardians about exchange transfusions: Exchange transfusions are generally not a routine intervention for infants with HIV unless there is a specific complication like severe hyperbilirubinemia or other hematologic conditions. The focus for infants with HIV is on managing antiretroviral therapy (ART) and preventing infections, rather than performing exchange transfusions. Educating the guardians about ART and infection prevention would be more appropriate.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "I should decrease my salt intake to 2 grams per day.":
This statement is correct. For clients with hypertension, a reduced salt intake is essential in managing blood pressure. The general recommendation is to limit sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day (about 2.3 grams), with an ideal target of 1,500 milligrams per day for individuals with hypertension or those at risk. Reducing salt intake helps lower blood pressure and prevent further complications.
B) "I can have two glasses of wine with dinner.":
This statement is incorrect. While moderate alcohol consumption may not be prohibited, it is important for individuals with hypertension to limit alcohol intake. The American Heart Association recommends no more than one drink per day for women. Two glasses of wine may exceed this limit, which could contribute to an increase in blood pressure.
C) "I should exercise for 5 minutes two times per week.":
This statement is incorrect. Exercise is an important component of managing hypertension, but 5 minutes of exercise twice a week is not sufficient. The general recommendation is for adults to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week, spread throughout the week. More frequent and longer exercise sessions are necessary to improve cardiovascular health and manage blood pressure.
D) "I will set my blood pressure goal at 130 over 84.":
This statement is incorrect. The goal for blood pressure in individuals with mild hypertension is generally lower than 130/80 mm Hg, according to current guidelines. A blood pressure of 130/84 is still considered elevated. The target should be to maintain a blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.
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