A nurse is assessing a patient with suicidal ideation. Which statement made by the patient requires immediate intervention?

Choice A rationale:

Leaving the client alone to give them space is not a suitable intervention for someone with a history of suicide attempts and depression. Isolation can increase the risk of acting on suicidal thoughts, and the client needs close monitoring and support during this vulnerable time.

Choice B rationale:

Removing any potential means of self-harm from the client's environment is essential. This intervention helps reduce the immediate risk by limiting access to harmful items. It's a crucial step in creating a safer environment for the client and preventing impulsive acts of self-harm.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the client to confront their feelings of hopelessness is important, but it should be done in a supportive and therapeutic manner. Simply telling someone to confront their feelings without appropriate guidance can be overwhelming and unproductive.

Choice D rationale:

Telling the client that they should be grateful for what they have minimizes their emotional experience and does not address the complexity of depression and suicidal ideation. This statement lacks empathy and understanding of the client's struggles.

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.