A nurse answers a suicide crisis line. A caller says, "I live alone in a home several miles from my nearest neighbors. I have been considering suicide for 2 months. I have had several drinks and now my gun is loaded. I'm going to shoot myself in the heart." How would the nurse assess the lethality of this plan?
Moderate level
High level
No risk
Low level
The Correct Answer is B
A. Moderate level would suggest a plan that has some risk but may be less imminent or less likely to result in death.
B. A plan involving a loaded gun aimed at a vital organ like the heart, coupled with alcohol consumption and intent, indicates a high level of lethality.
C. This scenario presents a significant risk given the method and the caller's intent, so "No risk" would not be appropriate.
D. Low level would suggest a plan that is less likely to cause severe harm or death, which is not the case here.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Dismissing the client's statement as manipulation without proper assessment can be dangerous.
B. While involving family support is important, this response doesn’t address the immediate safety concerns of the client.
C. Asking about suicidal plans helps assess the level of risk and informs subsequent actions to ensure the client's safety.
D. The situation requires more immediate assessment and action due to the expressed suicidal ideation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Sleep disturbances are common in PTSD, but they might not address the current acute symptoms the client is experiencing.
B. This question explores the immediate trigger for an outburst but might not directly address the PTSD symptoms related to the sexual assault.
C. Inquiring about flashbacks directly relates to one of the hallmark symptoms of PTSD, especially given the recent severe anxiety related to the assault.
D. Avoidance behavior is a symptom of PTSD, but the question about experiencing a flashback addresses more immediate distress.

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