A client has been diagnosed with depression and has a history of suicide attempts. What intervention is essential for the nurse to implement?
Leaving the client alone to give them space.
Removing any potential means of self-harm from the client's environment.
Encouraging the client to confront their feelings of hopelessness.
Telling the client that they should be grateful for what they have.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Leaving the client alone to give them space is not a suitable intervention for someone with a history of suicide attempts and depression. Isolation can increase the risk of acting on suicidal thoughts, and the client needs close monitoring and support during this vulnerable time.
Choice B rationale:
Removing any potential means of self-harm from the client's environment is essential. This intervention helps reduce the immediate risk by limiting access to harmful items. It's a crucial step in creating a safer environment for the client and preventing impulsive acts of self-harm.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging the client to confront their feelings of hopelessness is important, but it should be done in a supportive and therapeutic manner. Simply telling someone to confront their feelings without appropriate guidance can be overwhelming and unproductive.
Choice D rationale:
Telling the client that they should be grateful for what they have minimizes their emotional experience and does not address the complexity of depression and suicidal ideation. This statement lacks empathy and understanding of the client's struggles.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging isolation to minimize potential stressors is not a appropriate intervention for a client with suicidal ideation. Isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, which can further contribute to the client's distress.
Choice B rationale:
Assisting the client in creating a safety plan is a crucial intervention for a client with suicidal ideation. A safety plan helps the client identify strategies and resources to use when they experience overwhelming emotions or thoughts of self-harm. This plan provides a sense of control and practical steps to follow during times of crisis, promoting hope that they can manage their emotions and stay safe.
Choice C rationale:
Teaching the client relaxation techniques is a valuable intervention, but it may not directly address the immediate need for a safety plan. Relaxation techniques can be helpful for managing anxiety and stress, but they might not be sufficient to prevent self-harm or suicide attempts.
Choice D rationale:
Focusing solely on the client's past failures is counterproductive and can further erode the client's self-esteem and hope. It's important to focus on the client's strengths, coping skills, and the potential for positive change rather than dwelling on past difficulties.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Advising the client to keep their feelings to themselves is not an appropriate intervention in this situation. Suicidal ideation is a serious concern, and keeping feelings hidden could potentially lead to the client not receiving the necessary support and intervention they need to stay safe.
Choice B rationale:
Encouraging the client to isolate themselves until they feel better is not an appropriate intervention either. Isolation can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and increase the risk of acting on suicidal thoughts. Connecting with the client and providing a supportive environment is crucial.
Choice C rationale:
Asking the client directly if they are thinking about harming themselves is the most appropriate intervention. This approach helps the nurse assess the severity of the situation, open a dialogue about the client's feelings, and determine the level of risk. Direct communication allows for a better understanding of the client's mental state and the need for further intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Providing the client with alcohol or drugs to help them cope is a dangerous and inappropriate intervention. Substance use can further impair judgment and increase the risk of acting on suicidal thoughts. This action also fails to address the underlying issues contributing to the client's distress.
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