A nurse in a community clinic is speaking to a parent who expresses concern for her adolescent son.
Which of the following statements by the mother should indicate to the nurse that the adolescent is at risk for suicide?

Choice A rationale:

Administering an anti-anxiety medication may not be the most appropriate first action. While medication can help to reduce anxiety, it does not address the underlying issue of suicidal ideation. In some cases, medications can even increase the risk of suicide, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.

Instituting mouth checks to assure the medication is swallowed is not a standard practice in this situation. It is more important to focus on ensuring the client's safety and providing emotional support.

Choice B rationale:

Informing the provider about the client's statement is important, but it is not the first action that the nurse should take. The priority is to ensure the client's immediate safety.

The provider can be informed after the client has been stabilized and is no longer at immediate risk of harm.

Choice C rationale:

Assuring that a staff member stays with the client at all times is the most important first step in ensuring the client's safety. This will help to prevent the client from acting on their suicidal thoughts and provide an opportunity for the nurse to assess the client's risk for suicide and intervene as needed.

It also allows the nurse to provide emotional support and reassurance to the client.

Choice D rationale:

Questioning the client about a suicide plan and method is important, but it should not be done until the client's safety has been ensured. Asking about a suicide plan can be triggering for some clients and may increase their risk of suicide.

It is important to approach this topic sensitively and only when the client is feeling safe and supported.

Choice A rationale:

While group activities can be beneficial for some clients with bipolar disorder, they may not be appropriate during a manic phase. This is because group settings can be overstimulating and overwhelming for individuals experiencing mania. The increased activity and social interaction can exacerbate symptoms such as racing thoughts, pressured speech, and impulsivity.

It's crucial to prioritize calming activities and minimize external stimuli during manic episodes.

Choice C rationale:

Providing a stimulating environment is not recommended for clients in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. A stimulating environment can worsen symptoms of mania, such as:

Increased energy and activity levels

Racing thoughts

Impulsivity

Distractibility

Risk-taking behavior

Irritability

Aggression

Decreased need for sleep Grandiose thinking

Poor judgment

Hypersexuality

A calm and structured environment is more conducive to managing manic symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Scheduling daily seclusion times is not a standard intervention for clients in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Seclusion is a restrictive intervention that should only be used as a last resort when a client is at risk of harming themselves or others. It's essential to explore less restrictive alternatives for managing manic symptoms, such as medication, therapy, and environmental modifications.