A school registered nurse is speaking to the father of a 15-year-old male adolescent. The father has concerns about his son.
Which of the following statements by the mother should indicate to the nurse that the adolescent is at risk for suicide?

The correct answer/s is:

C. Give positive feedback when the client is assertive with staff or clients.

Rationale for Choice A:

While setting limits is an important aspect of nursing care, it's not specifically targeted towards the core challenges of dependent personality disorder. The primary concern in this case is the client's excessive reliance on others and inability to function independently. Setting limits might be perceived as a rejection or abandonment, potentially exacerbating the client's distress and anxiety. Additionally, focusing on preventing the exploitation of other clients shifts the attention away from the client's individual needs and goals.

Rationale for Choice B:

While self-mutilation is a potential risk in some individuals with dependent personality disorder, it's not a defining characteristic or the most prevalent concern. Continuous close monitoring can be intrusive and undermine the client's sense of autonomy. It's more effective to build trust and establish open communication where the client feels comfortable expressing distress and seeking help before resorting to self-harm.

Rationale for Choice C:

Assertiveness is a key skill to cultivate in individuals with dependent personality disorder. It empowers them to express their needs and desires appropriately, reducing their reliance on others and fostering healthy relationships. Offering positive reinforcement when the client exhibits assertive behavior, even in small steps, strengthens this skill and motivates them to continue their progress. This positive reinforcement approach aligns with therapeutic interventions for dependent personality disorder, which focus on building self-confidence and fostering independent functioning.

Rationale for Choice D:

Discouraging flamboyant or seductive behaviors might seem relevant because some individuals with dependent personality disorder might resort to attention-seeking tactics. However, such an approach risks shaming or judging the client, potentially increasing their feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. It's important to understand the underlying reason behind these behaviors, which could be a desperate attempt to gain approval or validation. Addressing the core issue of low self-esteem and encouraging authentic self-expression are more productive strategies than simply suppressing certain behaviors.

Additional Notes:

In addition to the rationales for each choice, it's important to consider the overall treatment goals for dependent personality disorder. These goals typically include:

Reduced dependence on others: Encouraging the client to take responsibility for their own needs and decisions. Improved assertiveness skills: Enabling the client to express their wishes and opinions confidently.

Enhanced self-esteem: Building the client's confidence and sense of self-worth.

Developing healthy relationships: Fostering interactions based on mutual respect and independence.

When planning care for a client with dependent personality disorder, the nurse should collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as therapists and social workers, to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach.

Choice A rationale:

Seclusion may be considered for a school-age client who repeatedly bites staff as a method of last resort to ensure the safety of both the client and staff.

It's important to exhaust other interventions first, such as verbal de-escalation, redirection, and medication.

If seclusion is used, it should be implemented under strict guidelines, with close monitoring and frequent reassessment to determine its effectiveness and necessity.

Choice B rationale:

Seclusion may be considered for an older adult client who is manic and agitated due to overstimulation, as it can provide a safe and quiet environment to reduce sensory input and promote calming.

However, it's crucial to carefully assess the client's physical and cognitive status, as seclusion can exacerbate confusion and disorientation in older adults.

Close monitoring and reassessment are essential.

Choice C rationale:

Seclusion may be considered for an adolescent client who throws objects at other clients to maintain safety and prevent harm to others.

It's important to first attempt other interventions, such as verbal de-escalation, redirection, and limit-setting.

If seclusion is used, it should be brief and implemented with therapeutic goals in mind, such as promoting self-regulation and problem-solving skills.

Choice D rationale:

Seclusion is contraindicated for an adult client after an interrupted suicide attempt.

This is because seclusion can increase isolation, hopelessness, and despair, which are significant risk factors for suicide.

It can also hinder close observation and monitoring of the client's mental state, potentially leading to further suicide attempts.

Instead, the focus should be on providing supportive, one-to-one contact, ensuring safety, and establishing therapeutic rapport to address the underlying issues that led to the suicide attempt.