A nurse manager is discussing suicide with nursing staff. Which of the following should the manager identify as risk factors for suicide? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason:
This response provides general information about the hereditary nature of mental illnesses and reassures the client of the nurse’s experience. It maintains a professional boundary and does not disclose personal information, making it a therapeutic response.

Choice B reason:
This response acknowledges the client’s concern about the hereditary nature of mental illness and redirects the focus back to the client’s current situation. It is a therapeutic response that maintains professional boundaries and keeps the conversation client-centered.

Choice C reason:
This response validates the client’s concern and encourages further discussion about their feelings and experiences. It is a therapeutic response that promotes open communication and understanding.

Choice D reason:
Disclosing personal information about the nurse’s family can blur professional boundaries and shift the focus away from the client. It is considered nontherapeutic because it may make the client feel uncomfortable or distract from their own issues.

Choice A reason:
Developmental theories focus on the progression of human growth and development through various stages of life. While these theories are important in understanding patient behavior and needs, they do not directly relate to the implementation of a privilege system in an inpatient unit. Privilege systems are more aligned with behavioral theories, which emphasize the modification of behavior through reinforcement and consequences.

Choice B reason:
Humanistic theories emphasize the individual’s capacity for self-actualization and personal growth. These theories focus on the holistic development of the person and the importance of empathy and unconditional positive regard in therapeutic relationships. Although humanistic approaches are valuable in mental health care, they do not specifically address the structured reinforcement strategies used in privilege systems.

Choice C reason:
Cognitive theories focus on the role of thought processes in influencing emotions and behaviors. These theories are crucial in understanding and treating mental health conditions, particularly through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). However, the privilege system, which relies on tangible rewards and consequences to shape behavior, is more closely related to behavioral theories rather than cognitive ones.

Choice D reason:
Behavioral theories are directly related to the use of a privilege system. These theories emphasize the use of reinforcement and punishment to modify behavior. In an inpatient setting, a privilege system is used to encourage desirable behaviors by providing rewards (privileges) and discouraging undesirable behaviors through the removal of privileges. This approach is grounded in the principles of operant conditioning, a key concept in behavioral theories.