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 A rationale:

Identifying and challenging positive thoughts is a cognitive-behavioral strategy that can be beneficial for managing mental health, but it is not the top priority in suicide prevention education. While it contributes to overall emotional well-being, recognizing signs of suicide risk is more directly relevant to preventing self-harm.

Choice B rationale:

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of suicide risk is crucial for early intervention and support. Educating clients and their families about these signs, such as increased isolation, giving away possessions, or talking about death, enables them to identify when someone might be in danger and take appropriate action.

Choice C rationale:

Promoting alcohol consumption as a stress-relieving strategy is inappropriate in a suicide prevention context. Alcohol can exacerbate emotional distress and impair judgment, potentially leading to impulsive behaviors, including self-harm. This choice goes against safe and effective strategies for managing distress.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging isolation during times of distress is counterproductive and potentially harmful. Isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, increasing the risk of suicidal ideation and actions. Connecting with a support network is a more appropriate recommendation during times of distress.