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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) is a pain rating scale that involves a straight line with one end representing "no pain” and the other end representing "worst pain imaginable.” The individual marks a point on the line to indicate their pain level. This scale may not be suitable for a 3-year-old child as it requires a certain level of cognitive and numerical understanding to make a meaningful assessment, which a young child may not possess.
Choice B reason:
The FACES pain rating scale is a visual tool that uses a series of facial expressions ranging from smiling to crying to help individuals, especially children, express their pain level. A 3-year-old child can easily point to the facial expression that best matches their pain experience, making it a suitable choice for this age group.
Choice C reason:
The Word-Graphic Scale is a pain rating scale that combines verbal descriptors with a visual representation of the pain intensity. It may include words like "no pain,” "mild pain,” "moderate pain,” and "severe pain” along with corresponding symbols. While it can be used with children, a 3-year-old might have difficulty grasping the abstract nature of the scale and correlating words with pain levels.
Choice D reason:
The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) requires the individual to rate their pain level on a scale from 0 to 10, with 0 being "no pain” and 10 being "worst pain.” Similar to the Visual Analog Scale, this scale might not be suitable for a 3-year-old child who may not fully understand abstract numerical concepts.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice B reason: The nurse should ask the client if they have had thoughts about harming their infant. This is a crucial action because the client's statement suggests they may be experiencing feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt as a mother, which could potentially lead to more serious thoughts or actions. By directly asking about thoughts of harming the baby, the nurse can assess the client's mental and emotional state more thoroughly and determine if there is a risk of harm to the infant.
Choice A reason:
The nurse should advise the client that most new mothers experience these feelings. This response acknowledges the client's feelings of inadequacy and normalizes their experience, letting them know that it is common for new mothers to have doubts and insecurities. This validation can help the client feel less alone and more understood, promoting a therapeutic nurse-client relationship.
Choice C reason:
The nurse should explain to the client that they are experiencing the "baby blues.” This is a valid option because the client's statement indicates they may be experiencing mood swings, sadness, and emotional sensitivity, which are typical symptoms of the baby blues. Providing this information can help the client understand that these feelings are transient and often related to hormonal changes after childbirth.
Choice D reason:
Taking the client to the emergency department is not warranted based solely on the information provided. The client's statement does not indicate an immediate danger to themselves or their baby. However, if during the assessment (including choice B), the nurse identifies any signs of potential harm to the infant or the client, further action may be necessary, such as involving appropriate mental health professionals or support services.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.