A nurse is caring for a client who recently attempted suicide and is now stabilized. What is a priority nursing goal for this client?

Choice A rationale:

Building rapport and trust with the patient. Building rapport and trust is a crucial aspect of the assessment phase, not the diagnosis phase, of the nursing process. While it's important to establish a strong nurse-patient relationship, the primary goal of the diagnosis phase is to identify and define the patient's health problems and needs.

Choice B rationale:

Identifying the nursing diagnoses related to suicide risk. The diagnosis phase involves analyzing the assessment data to identify and define the patient's health issues and needs. In the case of a patient at risk for suicide, it's essential to accurately identify the specific nursing diagnoses related to the suicide risk. This lays the foundation for developing an appropriate plan of care.

Choice C rationale:

Developing a plan of care for the patient's needs. While developing a plan of care is a critical step in the nursing process, it comes after the diagnosis phase. Once nursing diagnoses are identified, the nurse can then proceed to plan interventions and strategies to address the patient's needs.

Choice D rationale:

Evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. Evaluation is the final phase of the nursing process and occurs after interventions have been implemented. It involves determining whether the interventions have been successful in achieving the desired outcomes. The primary goal of the diagnosis phase is to identify the patient's health problems, not to evaluate interventions.

The correct answer is A. Monitoring the client’s access to lethal means, C. Providing the client with a detailed plan for coping, and D. Collaborating with the client’s family and friends.

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring the client’s access to lethal means is crucial to prevent any immediate risk of self-harm. This includes removing or securing items that could be used for suicide, such as medications, sharp objects, or firearms.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the client to isolate themselves for self-reflection is not advisable. Isolation can increase feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, which may exacerbate suicidal ideation.

Choice C rationale:

Providing the client with a detailed plan for coping helps them manage their thoughts and emotions more effectively. This plan can include strategies for dealing with stress, identifying triggers, and knowing when and how to seek help.

Choice D rationale:

Collaborating with the client’s family and friends is essential for creating a support network. Involving loved ones can provide the client with emotional support and help monitor their well-being.

Choice E rationale:

Administering sedative medications to keep the client calm is not a primary intervention for suicidal ideation. While medication may be part of a broader treatment plan, it should not be the sole strategy for ensuring safety.