After failing two tests, a college student cried for hours and then tried to telephone a parent but got no answer. The student then gave several expensive sweaters to a roommate. Which behavior provides the strongest clue of an impending suicide attempt?

A nurse is discussing the process of evidence-based practice (EBP) with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements made by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the process?

A nurse in an acute care mental health facility is caring for a client who has depression. After 3 days of treatment, the nurse notices that the client suddenly seems cheerful and relaxed and there are no longer signs of a depressive state. Which of the following interventions is appropriate to include in the plan of care?

A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted for suspected abuse. The client is quiet and withdrawn. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to promote client communication?

The decision to intervene as a patient advocate is clearly identified by the American Nurses Association's (ANA) code of ethics in which situation?

A nurse in a mental health facility is caring for a client who has major depressive disorder.

Progress Notes

Week 1

Client is experiencing major depressive disorder following the unexpected death of their partner 6 months ago. Has been unable to proceed through stages of grief. Has been on anti-depressant therapy for 5 months.

Admits to having thoughts of self-harm. Reports increasing anxiety levels. Loss of 15 lb over past months due to anorexia and anxiety. Reports insomnia, sleeping only 4 to 5 hr/night with frequent nightmares. Reports feelings of extreme fatigue.

Plan: Admit for group and individual therapy. Suicide precautions. Will add alprazolam to medication regimen.

Week 2

Client remains depressed, continues to have thoughts of self-harm. Not responding to group or individual therapy. States no improvement in mood or energy level. Admits to less anxiety and increased hours and quality of nightly sleep with addition of alprazolam. Anorexia still present.

Plan: Due to ineffectiveness of antidepressant regimen and psychotherapy, suggest addition of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Medication Administration Record

Bupropion 100 mg PO TID

Escitalopram 20 mg PO daily

Alprazolam 0.25 PO BID PRN anxiety

Which of the following items in the client's medical record indicate that they are a candidate for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?

(Select all that apply.)

A severely depressed patient who has been on suicide precautions tells the nurse, "I am feeling a lot better, so you can stop watching me. I have taken too much of your time already." Which is the nurse's best response?

A nurse in an acute mental health facility is caring for a client who jumps out of her chair and begins to shout angrily at the clients around her. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

How does a psychiatric nurse best implement the ethical principle of autonomy?

A nurse is caring for a client who has delusional behavior and states, "I can't go to group therapy today. I am expecting a high-level official to visit me!" The nurse responds, "I understand, but it is time for group therapy and we expect everyone to attend. Let's walk over together." For which of the following reasons is the nurse's response considered therapeutic?

A client has made a successful suicide attempt while hospitalized on a unit that specializes in the treatment of depression. When considering both milieu control and crisis management, which intervention will the nursing staff implement?