A nurse is providing education to a client and their family about suicide prevention. Which information should the nurse prioritize in the education?
Identifying and challenging positive thoughts.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of suicide risk.
Promoting alcohol consumption as a stress-relieving strategy.
Encouraging isolation during times of distress.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Identifying and challenging positive thoughts is a cognitive-behavioral strategy that can be beneficial for managing mental health, but it is not the top priority in suicide prevention education. While it contributes to overall emotional well-being, recognizing signs of suicide risk is more directly relevant to preventing self-harm.
Choice B rationale:
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of suicide risk is crucial for early intervention and support. Educating clients and their families about these signs, such as increased isolation, giving away possessions, or talking about death, enables them to identify when someone might be in danger and take appropriate action.
Choice C rationale:
Promoting alcohol consumption as a stress-relieving strategy is inappropriate in a suicide prevention context. Alcohol can exacerbate emotional distress and impair judgment, potentially leading to impulsive behaviors, including self-harm. This choice goes against safe and effective strategies for managing distress.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging isolation during times of distress is counterproductive and potentially harmful. Isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, increasing the risk of suicidal ideation and actions. Connecting with a support network is a more appropriate recommendation during times of distress.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D rationale:
Suicidal ideation can be a symptom of various underlying mental health conditions. It is not a diagnosis in itself but rather a manifestation of an individual's thoughts about self-harm or suicide. Suicidal ideation can range from passive thoughts of death to active and detailed plans for self-harm. It is essential for healthcare professionals to recognize and assess suicidal ideation as it can indicate significant distress and potential risk.
Choice A rationale:
Suicidal ideation is not a diagnosis on its own. It is a symptom that indicates emotional or psychological distress. Diagnoses are typically related to specific mental health disorders (e.g., major depressive disorder, borderline personality disorder) that may or may not involve suicidal ideation.
Choice B rationale:
Suicidal ideation is not solely more common in older adults. It can affect individuals of all age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. While the prevalence and characteristics of suicidal ideation may vary across age groups, it is not accurate to state that it is more common in older adults.
Choice C rationale:
Suicidal ideation does not always involve a detailed plan for self-harm. Suicidal ideation exists on a continuum, ranging from vague thoughts of death to well-formed plans for suicide. Some individuals may experience fleeting thoughts of wanting to die without having a detailed plan, while others may have specific plans and intent.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement indicates a clear and direct expression of suicidal ideation. The phrase "wish all of this would end" strongly implies a desire for one's life to end, which is a significant concern in assessing a patient with suicidal thoughts. Immediate intervention is necessary to ensure the patient's safety and address their emotional distress.
Choice B rationale:
This statement, "I have been feeling really down lately," expresses a general sense of sadness and low mood. While it suggests emotional distress, it does not explicitly convey a direct intention for self-harm or suicide. However, it should not be ignored and should be explored further during the assessment.
Choice C rationale:
"I've been making a list of things I want to do before I die" is a statement that may have different implications. While it could relate to the patient's interests and goals, it does not necessarily indicate a current intent for suicide. It is important to clarify the context and content of the list before drawing any conclusions.
Choice D rationale:
"I think things might get better if I reach out to my friends" suggests that the patient is considering seeking support from friends, which is generally a positive coping strategy. This statement does not express an immediate risk of self-harm or suicide. However, it's still essential to evaluate the patient's overall emotional state and social support.
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