A nurse is caring for an adolescent who states an intention to self-harm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.
Apply wrist restraints to the adolescent.
Collect data about the adolescent's mental status.
Obtain consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints.
The Correct Answer is A
The nurse should maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.
Choice A reason:
The first and most crucial action when a patient expresses an intention to self-harm is to ensure their safety. By maintaining continuous observation, the nurse can closely monitor the adolescent's behavior and intervene promptly if any signs of self-harm emerge. This action helps prevent immediate harm and allows for timely interventions.
Choice B reason:
Applying wrist restraints to the adolescent (Choice B) would not be appropriate in this situation. Restraints are typically used as a last resort for patients who pose a danger to themselves or others and only when less restrictive measures have failed. In the case of self- harm, using restraints can increase the patient's distress and potentially worsen the situation.
Choice C reason:
Collecting data about the adolescent's mental status (Choice C) is an essential step in understanding their overall condition, but it should not be the first action taken. While gathering data is important for a comprehensive assessment, immediate safety concerns must take precedence.
Choice D reason:
Obtaining consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints (Choice D) is not the first priority when the patient expresses an intention to self-harm. The focus should be on ensuring the patient's immediate safety, and consent for restraints may be necessary only if other interventions prove inadequate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
"I will reinforce the patch edges with clear tape if they don't lie flat.".
Choice A reason:
Placing a heat pack on the patch to improve adhesion is not recommended. Heat can potentially increase the absorption of the medication and lead to adverse effects. Applying additional heat to the patch can be dangerous and may cause an overdose or other complications.
Choice B reason:
Placing the patch on the back side of the child's arm is not the correct application site for a methylphenidate transdermal patch. The appropriate site for application is typically the hip or the top of the buttocks. The back of the arm may not provide proper absorption and can result in suboptimal medication delivery.
Choice C reason:
This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching. Reinforcing the patch edges with clear tape if they don't lie flat is a recommended step to ensure proper adhesion of the patch. If the edges of the patch lift or don't stick properly, using clear tape can help keep the patch securely in place, ensuring continuous and consistent drug delivery.
Choice D reason:
Leaving the patch in place for no more than 9 hours is incorrect. The duration of wear for a methylphenidate transdermal patch varies depending on the specific brand and formulation. Typically, these patches are designed for 9 to 12 hours of wear, and leaving them on for a shorter duration may result in inadequate symptom control.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Adolescents tend to believe their own actions might have caused their terminal illness. Choice A reason:
This statement reflects a common developmental focus for adolescents, who are often navigating issues related to identity and self-image. While they are aware of their illness, many may prioritize concerns about how they look and how they are perceived by others. This can be a significant aspect of their experience during a terminal illness.
Choice B reason:
Many adolescents imagine death as a type of monster. Although this statement acknowledges a common perception of death among some adolescents, it is not the best choice for reinforcing teaching about the perception of death in the context of a terminal illness. The focus should be on more concrete and realistic aspects of death and its implications.
Choice C reason:
This statement does reflect a valid concern but may not be as prevalent as the concern with appearance in this age group. Many adolescents, especially in a terminal situation, may focus on more immediate concerns, such as how they are perceived.
Choice D reason:
Many adolescents don't understand that death is permanent. While this statement may be true for some adolescents who are still developing a full comprehension of death, it is not the most suitable choice for this scenario. In the context of a terminal illness, it is essential to acknowledge that the adolescent likely has a clear understanding of the finality of death.
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