A nurse is providing education to a group of healthcare professionals about suicide and suicidal ideation. Which of the following statements accurately describes suicidal ideation?

Choice A rationale:

Being extroverted is not a common risk factor associated with suicide and suicidal ideation. Extroverted individuals typically have strong social interactions and connections, which are often considered protective factors against suicide.

Choice B rationale:

Having strong family support is not a common risk factor for suicide. In fact, strong family support is generally considered a protective factor that can mitigate the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Close familial relationships can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.

Choice C rationale:

Experiencing chronic physical illness is a common risk factor for suicide. Chronic physical illness can lead to prolonged suffering, decreased quality of life, and feelings of hopelessness, which are all associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation.

Choice D rationale:

Having a history of positive life events is not a common risk factor for suicide. Positive life events are more likely to act as protective factors against suicide, as they contribute to an individual's overall well-being and resilience.

Choice E rationale:

Suffering from a substance use disorder is a common risk factor for suicide. Substance abuse can impair judgment, increase impulsivity, exacerbate emotional distress, and weaken the individual's ability to cope effectively, all of which contribute to an elevated risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Choice A rationale:

Active listening. Active listening is an important communication skill that involves attentively hearing and interpreting what the patient is saying. However, it doesn't specifically address the aspect of acknowledging the patient's feelings and thoughts as real and understandable without agreeing or disagreeing.

Choice B rationale:

Empowerment. Empowerment refers to the process of enabling and supporting patients to take control of their own health and make informed decisions. While this is an essential aspect of patient care, it doesn't directly address the skill of acknowledging the patient's feelings and thoughts without expressing agreement or disagreement.

Choice C rationale:

Validation. Validation involves recognizing and accepting the patient's feelings and thoughts as valid, even if you don't share the same perspective. It shows empathy and understanding without passing judgment. In the context of a patient with suicidal ideation, validation is crucial as it helps build trust and rapport, creating an environment where the patient feels heard and supported.

Choice D rationale:

Open-ended questions. Open-ended questions are inquiries that can't be answered with a simple "yes" or "no" and encourage patients to provide more detailed responses. While they are valuable for eliciting information, they don't specifically address the act of acknowledging the patient's feelings and thoughts as real and understandable without taking a stance.