A nurse is assessing a client for potential suicidal ideation. The client says, "I've been thinking a lot about death lately. I wonder what it's like to not exist anymore." What would be an appropriate response by the nurse?

"You shouldn't dwell on those thoughts. They're not healthy.".

"I can see that you're feeling down, but these thoughts will pass.".

"Tell me more about what you're experiencing.".

"Just remember that things will get better soon.".

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale:

Dismissing the client's thoughts and labeling them as unhealthy might cause the client to feel judged or reluctant to share further. It's important to approach the situation with openness and empathy.

Choice B rationale:

While it's true that the client's thoughts might pass, this response doesn't address the client's feelings or encourage them to express themselves. It's important to engage in a more in-depth conversation to understand their emotions.

Choice C rationale:

Asking the client to elaborate on their thoughts and experiences opens the door for meaningful conversation and assessment. This response shows genuine interest in the client's well-being and allows the nurse to gather more information to determine the appropriate level of support.

Choice D rationale:

Telling the client that things will get better soon might come across as dismissive of their current struggles. It's important to validate their emotions and explore their feelings further rather than offering premature reassurances.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

This statement reflects a significant red flag for potential suicide risk. The client's acknowledgment of losing their job and perceiving their family would be better off without them suggests feelings of worthlessness and burden. These emotions are associated with an increased risk of self-harm or suicide. Immediate attention and intervention are necessary to address the client's distorted thoughts and emotions.

Choice B rationale:

"I enjoy spending time with my pet dog; it helps me relax" is not an alarming statement related to suicide risk. While it highlights a coping mechanism, it doesn't provide direct insight into the client's emotional state or thoughts about self-harm.

Choice C rationale:

"I have a supportive group of friends who are always there for me" indicates a positive aspect of the client's social support network. This statement does not raise immediate concerns about suicide risk. However, a comprehensive assessment should still explore the client's overall emotional well-being.

Choice D rationale:

"I find it challenging to express my emotions to others" suggests a difficulty in emotional expression, which can be relevant to the assessment but does not inherently indicate imminent suicide risk. It's important to further explore the client's reasons for struggling with emotional expression.

A. Active listening. B. Empowerment. C. Validation. D. Open-ended questions.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Active listening. Active listening is an important communication skill that involves attentively hearing and interpreting what the patient is saying. However, it doesn't specifically address the aspect of acknowledging the patient's feelings and thoughts as real and understandable without agreeing or disagreeing.

Choice B rationale:

Empowerment. Empowerment refers to the process of enabling and supporting patients to take control of their own health and make informed decisions. While this is an essential aspect of patient care, it doesn't directly address the skill of acknowledging the patient's feelings and thoughts without expressing agreement or disagreement.

Choice C rationale:

Validation. Validation involves recognizing and accepting the patient's feelings and thoughts as valid, even if you don't share the same perspective. It shows empathy and understanding without passing judgment. In the context of a patient with suicidal ideation, validation is crucial as it helps build trust and rapport, creating an environment where the patient feels heard and supported.

Choice D rationale:

Open-ended questions. Open-ended questions are inquiries that can't be answered with a simple "yes" or "no" and encourage patients to provide more detailed responses. While they are valuable for eliciting information, they don't specifically address the act of acknowledging the patient's feelings and thoughts as real and understandable without taking a stance.

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A nurse is assessing a client for potential suicidal ideation. The client says, "I've been thinking a lot about death lately. I wonder what it's like to not exist anymore." What would be an appropriate response by the nurse?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is conducting an assessment for a patient with suicidal ideation. Which skill involves acknowledging the patient's feelings and thoughts as real and understandable without agreeing or disagreeing with them?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of the plan of care for a patient with suicidal ideation. What action should the nurse take during the evaluation phase?

A nurse is providing education to a group of healthcare professionals about suicide and suicidal ideation. Which of the following statements accurately describes suicidal ideation?

A nurse is teaching a client's family about suicide prevention. What information should the nurse emphasize when discussing resources for help and support?

A client is diagnosed with "Impaired coping." Which statement accurately describes this nursing diagnosis for a patient with suicidal ideation?

A nurse is establishing a therapeutic relationship with a patient at risk for suicide. Which of the following skills should the nurse use to build rapport and trust with the patient? (Select all that apply):

A client is diagnosed with "Hopelessness." How would the nurse define this nursing diagnosis for a patient with suicidal ideation?

(Select all that apply): A nurse is establishing a therapeutic relationship with a patient at risk for suicide. Which of the following skills should the nurse use to build rapport and trust with the patient?

A nurse is assessing a patient with suicidal ideation. Which step of the nursing process involves collecting data about the patient's physical and mental health status, suicide risk level, protective factors, coping skills, and support system?