A nurse is caring for a client three days after admission for treatment of depression. The client leaves her current activity, approaches the nurse, and states, "There's no reason to go on living. I just want to end it all." Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Ask the client if she has a plan to commit suicide.
Assist the client to her room and allow her to rest before resuming activity.
Recognize the attempt at manipulation and escort the client back to her activity.
Notify the client's family and request a visitor to stay with the client until thoughts of suicide are gone.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
When a client expresses thoughts of wanting to end their life, it is crucial for the nurse to immediately assess the risk of suicide. Asking the client if they have a plan to commit suicide is a direct approach to gauge the immediacy and seriousness of the risk. This information is vital for determining the next steps in care, which may include close supervision, safety precautions, and urgent psychiatric evaluation.
Choice B reason:
While ensuring the client is comfortable is important, allowing the client to rest without further assessment or intervention may not be safe if the client is at immediate risk of self-harm. The priority is to assess and secure the client's safety.
Choice C reason:
It is inappropriate and potentially dangerous to dismiss the client's statement as manipulation. All expressions of suicidal ideation should be taken seriously, and the nurse should provide a supportive response that addresses the client's emotional state and safety concerns.
Choice D reason:
Notifying the client's family can be part of a broader safety plan, but it should not replace immediate assessment and intervention by the healthcare team. Family members may provide support, but they are not a substitute for professional care and suicide risk assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A necklace can pose a risk for clients with suicidal tendencies as it can be used to inflict self-harm. In an acute mental health unit, it is crucial to remove any items that could potentially be used in another suicide attempt. The nurse should ensure that the environment is safe and free from objects that could be used for hanging or strangulation.
Choice B reason:
Lace-up tennis shoes have laces that can be removed and used by the client to harm themselves. It is a standard safety precaution in mental health units to remove any items with strings or laces, such as belts, drawstrings, or shoe laces, to prevent their use in self-harm or suicide attempts.
Choice C reason:
Nylon ankle socks are generally considered safe and do not typically need to be removed. They do not pose a significant risk for self-harm. Therefore, the client can keep these for personal comfort and hygiene.
Choice D reason:
Cotton underwear is a basic necessity and does not present a risk for self-harm. It is important for the client's dignity and hygiene to have access to personal undergarments while in the mental health unit.
Choice E reason:
A glass-framed picture, while sentimental, poses a risk due to the glass, which can be broken and used to inflict self-harm. For safety reasons, any items made of glass or other breakable materials should be removed from the client's access in a mental health unit.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Escorting the client to the common area is not the priority action. While being around others can sometimes be comforting, during a panic attack, the client may feel overwhelmed and exposed, which could exacerbate the situation.
Choice B reason:
Contacting security for possible restraints should be a last resort and is not the priority action. Restraints can increase anxiety and fear, potentially escalating the panic attack. The use of restraints is only considered when the client is at risk of harming themselves or others and all other interventions have failed.
Choice C reason:
Staying with the client is the priority action. During a panic attack, the client needs reassurance and a sense of safety. The nurse's presence can provide comfort. The nurse should remain calm, use a quiet voice, and avoid making any sudden movements. Implementing relaxation techniques and promoting a calming environment are also beneficial.
Choice D reason:
Staying away from the client is not the priority action. Leaving the client alone can increase feelings of isolation and fear. The nurse should provide continuous observation and support during the panic attack.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.