In a psychiatric unit, how are bright colors in the client’s environment often perceived?

Choice A rationale
While ineffective coping related to inadequate stress management is a valid nursing diagnosis, it is not the highest priority in this situation. The client’s life is not immediately at risk due to ineffective coping.
Choice B rationale
Hopelessness related to recent divorce is a significant concern, but it is not the highest priority. The immediate threat to the client’s life is the suicidal ideation with a highly lethal plan.
Choice C rationale
Spiritual distress related to conflicting thoughts about suicide and sin is a potential nursing diagnosis for this client. However, the immediate life-threatening issue takes precedence.
Choice D rationale
Risk for suicide related to highly lethal plan is the highest priority nursing diagnosis. The client has a plan to commit suicide with a handgun, which is a highly lethal method. Immediate intervention is required to ensure the client’s safety.

Choice A rationale
Telling the patient to be quiet and sit down immediately may seem like a quick solution, but it is not the most therapeutic response. This approach may come across as dismissive and authoritarian, which could escalate the patient’s agitation.
Choice B rationale
This is the most appropriate initial intervention. By expressing a desire to understand the patient’s feelings, the nurse opens up a line of communication and shows empathy. This can help de-escalate the situation and make the patient feel heard and understood.
Choice C rationale
Telling the patient to go to their room and control themselves can come across as dismissive and invalidating. It does not address the patient’s feelings or concerns and may escalate the situation.
Choice D rationale
Asking “What is going on?” is a good way to encourage the patient to express their feelings, but it may not be as effective as Choice B. The phrasing in Choice B is more direct and shows more empathy and concern for the patient’s emotional state.