A client with a history of suicide attempts is admitted to the hospital. Which statement by the client should the nurse address during the assessment phase?

Choice A rationale:

Engaging in team sports is generally a positive activity and does not typically indicate suicidal ideation. While team sports can have mental health benefits, it is important to focus on the other signs that are more strongly associated with potential suicide risk.

Choice B rationale:

Expressing feelings of hopelessness is a significant warning sign of suicidal ideation. When individuals consistently express a sense of hopelessness, it could indicate that they feel trapped in their current situation and may be contemplating suicide as a way out.

Choice C rationale:

Withdrawing from social activities is a red flag for potential suicidal ideation. Social withdrawal can be indicative of a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed, a desire to isolate oneself, and an increased sense of loneliness and isolation, all of which are concerning signs.

Choice D rationale:

Demonstrating good academic performance is generally not a strong indicator of suicidal ideation. It's important to consider other emotional and behavioral signs that are more closely related to mental distress.

Choice E rationale:

Participating in creative hobbies can be a warning sign of suicidal ideation, especially if there is a sudden loss of interest in activities that the person used to enjoy. Creative hobbies may serve as an outlet for emotions, and a decrease in engagement could signal emotional turmoil.

Choice D rationale:

Suicidal ideation can be a symptom of various underlying mental health conditions. It is not a diagnosis in itself but rather a manifestation of an individual's thoughts about self-harm or suicide. Suicidal ideation can range from passive thoughts of death to active and detailed plans for self-harm. It is essential for healthcare professionals to recognize and assess suicidal ideation as it can indicate significant distress and potential risk.

Choice A rationale:

Suicidal ideation is not a diagnosis on its own. It is a symptom that indicates emotional or psychological distress. Diagnoses are typically related to specific mental health disorders (e.g., major depressive disorder, borderline personality disorder) that may or may not involve suicidal ideation.

Choice B rationale:

Suicidal ideation is not solely more common in older adults. It can affect individuals of all age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. While the prevalence and characteristics of suicidal ideation may vary across age groups, it is not accurate to state that it is more common in older adults.

Choice C rationale:

Suicidal ideation does not always involve a detailed plan for self-harm. Suicidal ideation exists on a continuum, ranging from vague thoughts of death to well-formed plans for suicide. Some individuals may experience fleeting thoughts of wanting to die without having a detailed plan, while others may have specific plans and intent.