A client with a history of substance use disorder and recent job loss is exhibiting signs of suicidal ideation. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate in this situation?

Choice A:

Administering prescribed antidepressant medication.

Choice B:

Creating a hope box for the client.

Choice C:

Teaching relaxation techniques to the client.

Choice E:

Providing crisis hotline numbers to the client.

Choice A rationale:

Administering prescribed antidepressant medication. This intervention can be included in the implementation phase of care for a client with expressed suicidal thoughts. Antidepressant medication, when prescribed by a healthcare provider, can help alleviate depressive symptoms and improve the client's overall mental state.

Choice B rationale:

Creating a hope box for the client. Creating a hope box, filled with personal mementos, coping strategies, and reminders of positive experiences, can provide the client with a tangible tool for managing moments of despair. This can contribute to the client's emotional well-being and resilience.

Choice C rationale:

Teaching relaxation techniques to the client. Teaching relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation, can equip the client with coping skills to manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelming emotions. These techniques can be valuable in preventing escalation of suicidal thoughts.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging social isolation to prevent triggers. This choice is not appropriate for a client with expressed suicidal thoughts. Encouraging social isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, potentially increasing the risk of self-harm. Social support and connection are essential protective factors.

Choice E rationale:

Providing crisis hotline numbers to the client. Supplying crisis hotline numbers ensures that the client has access to immediate support during times of distress. This intervention helps the client reach out for help when needed and promotes safety.

Choice B:

Encouraging active patient involvement.

Choice D:

Reflecting the patient's feelings and thoughts.

Choice A rationale:

Closed-ended questions often limit conversation and do not encourage deeper exploration of feelings or thoughts. In a therapeutic relationship with a patient at risk for suicide, the focus should be on open communication and building trust, which is not achieved through the use of closed-ended questions. Therefore, this choice is not suitable for building rapport and trust.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging active patient involvement is crucial for establishing a therapeutic relationship. It empowers the patient to share their thoughts, concerns, and feelings openly. This choice promotes a sense of collaboration and trust between the nurse and the patient, creating a safe space for discussing sensitive topics like suicidal thoughts.

Choice C rationale:

Imposing personal opinions can create a power imbalance and hinder the therapeutic relationship. Patients should feel that their thoughts and feelings are respected and valued. Imposing personal opinions could alienate the patient and undermine the trust-building process.

Choice D rationale:

Reflecting the patient's feelings and thoughts involves active listening and showing empathy. This technique validates the patient's emotions and experiences, fostering a sense of understanding and trust. Reflecting feelings and thoughts demonstrates that the nurse is genuinely engaged and interested in the patient's perspective.

Choice E rationale:

Disregarding the patient's preferences goes against the principles of patient-centered care and building a therapeutic relationship. The patient's preferences and needs should be acknowledged and respected to establish trust and rapport. Disregarding preferences can lead to feelings of invalidation and hinder the development of a meaningful connection.