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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A depressant Depressants typically slow down the central nervous system, leading to
symptoms like sedation, slowed heart rate, and reduced blood pressure. The symptoms described in the question, such as tachycardia, hypertension, restlessness, and agitation, are not
characteristic of depressant use.
B. An opioid Opioids primarily lead to central nervous system depression, resulting in symptoms like respiratory depression, sedation, and decreased heart rate. The symptoms described in the question, such as tachycardia and restlessness, are not typical of opioid use.
C. A stimulant Stimulants, such as amphetamines or cocaine, lead to increased activity in the central nervous system, resulting in symptoms like tachycardia, hypertension, restlessness, and agitation. These symptoms align with the presentation described in the question.
D. An inhalant Inhalants can lead to a variety of effects, including dizziness, confusion, and sometimes increased heart rate. However, they are not typically associated with the specific symptoms of tachycardia, hypertension, restlessness, and agitation described in the question.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While providing reassurance is important, this response does not directly address the client's statement about future attempts.
B. This response may minimize the seriousness of the client's statement and is not the best way to address the situation.
C. This response directly addresses the client's statement, seeking clarification on her plans. It is important to assess the level of risk and ensure the client's safety.
D. While expressing empathy and highlighting the client's positive qualities can be helpful, it may not directly address the immediate concern of the client's statement about future attempts.
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