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 B
Explanation
A. Clients with major depressive disorder often exhibit decreased response to stimuli rather than an exaggerated response.
B. Weight changes, either a significant gain or loss, are common in individuals with major depressive disorder due to changes in appetite.
C. Hyperexcitability is not typically associated with major depressive disorder. Instead, individuals with depression often exhibit decreased energy and enthusiasm.
D. While seeking attention can manifest in some individuals with mental health conditions, it's not a defining characteristic of major depressive disorder.

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