A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a client who has schizophrenia.

Exhibits

Complete the following sentence by using the list of options. The nurse should clarify the prescription for 

dropdown

due to the client’s

dropdown

.

Choice A Reason: Access to guns in the home

Access to firearms is a significant risk factor for suicide. Studies have shown that the presence of a gun in the home increases the risk of suicide, as it provides a readily available means to carry out the act. Firearms are highly lethal, and their availability can lead to impulsive decisions resulting in fatal outcomes. Therefore, healthcare providers should assess the presence of firearms in the home and discuss safe storage practices or removal of firearms to reduce the risk.

Choice B Reason: A history of suicide attempts

A previous history of suicide attempts is one of the strongest predictors of future suicide risk. Individuals who have attempted suicide in the past are at a higher risk of attempting again, often with more lethal means. This history indicates underlying issues such as severe depression, hopelessness, or other mental health disorders that need to be addressed through comprehensive treatment and support.

Choice C Reason: Currently married

Being currently married is generally considered a protective factor against suicide rather than a risk factor. Marriage can provide emotional support, companionship, and a sense of responsibility, which can help mitigate feelings of loneliness and despair. However, the quality of the marital relationship is crucial; a troubled marriage can contribute to stress and mental health issues, potentially increasing suicide risk.

Choice D Reason: Alcohol use disorder

Alcohol use disorder is a significant risk factor for suicide. Alcohol can impair judgment, increase impulsivity, and exacerbate underlying mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Individuals with alcohol use disorder are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, including suicide attempts. Addressing alcohol use through treatment programs and support groups is essential in reducing suicide risk.

Choice E Reason: Terminal cancer

A diagnosis of terminal cancer can lead to feelings of hopelessness, despair, and a desire to end suffering, which can increase the risk of suicide. Patients with terminal illnesses may experience significant physical pain, emotional distress, and a perceived loss of dignity, all of which can contribute to suicidal ideation. Providing comprehensive palliative care, psychological support, and addressing pain management can help mitigate these risks.

Choice A reason:
Discussing the benefits of ECT with the client is primarily the responsibility of the physician. The physician should provide a comprehensive explanation of the procedure, including its benefits, risks, and potential side effects. The nurse can support this process by reinforcing the information provided by the physician and addressing any additional questions or concerns the client may have. However, the primary role of discussing the benefits lies with the physician.

Choice B reason:
Witnessing the client signing the form is a key responsibility of the nurse during the informed consent process. The nurse's role is to ensure that the client has received all necessary information from the physician and understands it. The nurse then witnesses the client signing the consent form, confirming that the client is voluntarily agreeing to the procedure. This step is crucial to ensure that the consent is legally valid and ethically sound.

Choice C reason:
Determining if the client is competent to give consent is typically the responsibility of the physician or a qualified mental health professional. Competency involves assessing the client's ability to understand the information provided, appreciate the consequences of their decision, and make an informed choice. While the nurse can observe and report any concerns about the client's understanding or decision-making capacity, the formal assessment of competency is not within the nurse's scope of practice.

Choice D reason:
Discussing alternative treatment options with the client is also primarily the responsibility of the physician. The physician should present all viable treatment options, including their benefits and risks, to help the client make an informed decision. The nurse can support this process by providing additional information and clarification as needed, but the primary responsibility for discussing alternatives lies with the physician.