A nurse is conducting an assessment for a patient with suicidal ideation. Which skill involves acknowledging the patient's feelings and thoughts as real and understandable without agreeing or disagreeing with them?

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.

A.Administering prescribed antidepressant medication,
B. Assisting the client in creating a hope box,

C. Teaching relaxation techniques to the client, and E. Providing education about the importance of follow-up care.

Choice A rationale:

Administering prescribed antidepressant medication is an important intervention for a client with suicidal ideation who may be experiencing underlying depression. Antidepressants can help alleviate depressive symptoms, which can contribute to an improved mental state and decreased risk of self-harm.

Choice B rationale:

Assisting the client in creating a hope box is a valuable intervention. A hope box is a collection of items that hold personal significance and provide comfort to the client during times of distress. This intervention encourages the client to focus on positive aspects of their life, fostering hope and resilience.

Choice C rationale:

Teaching relaxation techniques to the client equips them with coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety. These techniques can help the client regulate their emotions and reduce feelings of distress, which are essential for preventing suicidal ideation.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging social isolation is not appropriate for a client with suicidal ideation. Isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, increasing the risk of self-harm. Instead, promoting social connections and a supportive network can contribute to the client's well-being.

Choice E rationale:

Providing education about the importance of follow-up care is crucial for a client's ongoing well-being. Follow-up care ensures that the client continues to receive necessary support and interventions, reducing the risk of relapse and maintaining their progress toward recovery.