A nurse is collecting data from a group of clients who have major depressive disorder.
The nurse should identify that which of the following clients is at the greatest risk for suicide?
A client who has psychomotor retardation.
A client who reports an inability to concentrate.
A client who exhibits an increase in energy.
A client who experiences persistent insomnia.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is: c. A client who exhibits an increase in energy.
Choice A reason: A client with psychomotor retardation may experience a visible slowing of physical and emotional reactions. This symptom is associated with major depressive disorder and can manifest as slowed speech, decreased movement, and impaired cognitive function. While psychomotor retardation is a significant symptom of depression, it is not typically identified as the highest risk factor for suicide when compared to other symptoms such as a sudden increase in energy, which can indicate a potential for acting on suicidal thoughts.
Choice B reason: An inability to concentrate is another symptom that can be present in individuals with major depressive disorder. It refers to difficulty in focusing, making decisions, or remembering things. Although this can contribute to the overall severity of depression, it is not directly linked to an increased risk of suicide as strongly as some other symptoms like changes in sleep patterns or behavior.
Choice C reason: An increase in energy in a client with major depressive disorder, especially if it occurs suddenly, can be a warning sign of potential suicidal behavior. This change can indicate that the individual has decided about suicide and may now have the energy to act on these thoughts. It is important for healthcare providers to closely monitor such changes in energy levels, as they can be indicative of an increased risk for suicide.
Choice D reason: Persistent insomnia is a common symptom in individuals with major depressive disorder and can exacerbate other symptoms of depression. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, cognitive impairment, and can affect overall health. While it is a concerning symptom and can affect a person’s risk for suicide, it is not considered the single highest risk factor when compared to a sudden increase in energy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"B"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"},"E":{"answers":"A,B,C"}}
Explanation
Wheezes: This finding may indicate a latex allergy, as wheezing is a sign of respiratory distress caused by an allergic reaction to latex proteins. Wheezes are not typical of malignant hyperthermia or hypovolemic shock.
Muscle rigidity: This finding is a hallmark of malignant hyperthermia, as it reflects the excessive calcium release and muscle contraction triggered by certain anesthetic agents. Muscle rigidity is not a feature of latex allergy or hypovolemic shock.
Urticaria: This finding is a common manifestation of latex allergy, as urticaria (hives) is a type of skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to latex proteins. Urticaria is not associated with malignant hyperthermia or hypovolemic shock.
Hypercapnia: This finding is indicative of malignant hyperthermia, as hypercapnia (high carbon dioxide levels in the blood) is a result of increased metabolism and oxygen consumption due to muscle rigidity and fever. Hypercapnia is not usually seen in latex allergy or hypovolemic shock, unless there is severe respiratory compromise.
Tachycardia: This finding can be present in all three disease processes, as tachycardia (fast heart rate) is a nonspecific response to stress, fever, pain, hypoxia, or hypovolemia. However, tachycardia is more pronounced and persistent in malignant hyperthermia and hypovolemic shock than in latex allergy.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Applying a cold compress to the client's calf is not the priority in this situation. The client is reporting pain in the calf, which could be indicative of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially serious condition. Monitoring the client's oxygen saturation (pulse oximetry) is a more appropriate action to assess for possible DVT complications, such as a pulmonary embolism.
Choice B rationale:
Monitoring the client's pulse oximetry is the correct action in this scenario. Pain in the calf can be a symptom of DVT, which can lead to reduced blood flow and potential oxygenation issues. Monitoring the client's oxygen saturation levels can help identify any oxygenation problems early.
Choice C rationale:
Instructing the client to massage the calf gently is not recommended in this situation, as it may dislodge a clot if DVT is present. Massaging the calf can be harmful and is contraindicated when DVT is suspected.
Choice D rationale:
Maintaining the leg in a dependent position while in bed is not a recommended action in this case. Elevating the leg can help reduce swelling and improve venous return, but it should be done cautiously, especially if DVT is suspected. Monitoring the client's condition and oxygen saturation takes precedence.
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.