An adolescent tells the school nurse, "My friend threatened to take an overdose of pills." The nurse talks to the friend who verbalized the suicide threat. What is the most critical question for the nurse to ask?
"Why do you want to kill yourself?"
"Do you have access to medications?"
"Have you been taking drugs and alcohol?"
"Did something happen with your parents?"
The Correct Answer is B
A) Incorrect. While understanding the reasons behind the suicidal thoughts is important, in this immediate situation, assessing access to means (medications) is crucial.
B) Correct. This question assesses the immediate risk by determining if the friend has access to the means (medications) to carry out the overdose.
C) Incorrect. While substance use is a risk factor, it may not directly address the immediate threat of overdose with pills.
D) Incorrect. While family issues can contribute to emotional distress, the most pressing concern is the immediate risk of overdose.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Agitation can be a sign of distress, but sudden cheerfulness may be indicative of a decision to act on suicidal thoughts, as the individual may feel relieved to have made a decision.
B. Sudden cheerfulness can be a concerning sign, as it may indicate that the client has made a decision to carry out suicidal thoughts.
C. Psychomotor retardation is a symptom of depression and may not necessarily indicate imminent risk of suicide.
D. Not attending group therapy may be a sign of withdrawal or isolation, but it does not directly indicate immediate suicidal risk.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Increase your fluid and fiber intake to prevent constipation – Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic, can cause constipation due to its anticholinergic effects. Increasing fluid and fiber intake can help prevent this.
B. Have your blood pressure checked frequently for hypertension – Risperidone is more commonly associated with orthostatic hypotension, not hypertension.
C. Expect to have your blood checked weekly for serum electrolyte imbalances – Unlike clozapine, risperidone does not require frequent blood monitoring for electrolyte imbalances.
D. Increase caloric intake to prevent weight loss – Risperidone is more likely to cause weight gain rather than weight loss, so increasing caloric intake is unnecessary.
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