A nurse is performing a psychosocial assessment on an adolescent client.
Which of the following should indicate to the nurse a potential risk for suicide? (Select all that apply)
Recent or impending move
Sudden decline in school performance
Death of a parent at a young age
Low parental expectations.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
The correct answer/s is Choices A, B, and C.
Choice A Rationale:
Recent or impending moves can be a significant stressor for adolescents, disrupting their social networks, routines, and sense of belonging. This disruption can exacerbate existing mental health problems or trigger new ones, increasing the risk of suicidal ideation or behavior. Studies have shown that adolescents who relocate are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, all of which are risk factors for suicide. Additionally, the feeling of loss and displacement associated with moving can lead to feelings of isolation and hopelessness, further increasing the risk.
Choice B Rationale:
A sudden decline in school performance can be a sign of underlying emotional distress in adolescents. This decline may be due to depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems that can impede concentration, motivation, and overall academic functioning. Suicidal ideation or behavior can also lead to a decline in school performance as the adolescent withdraws from their usual activities and struggles to cope with their emotions. Therefore, a sudden drop in grades or academic engagement should raise a red flag for the nurse and warrant further investigation into the adolescent's emotional well-being.
Choice C Rationale:
The death of a parent at a young age is a major life event that can have a profound impact on an adolescent's emotional and psychological development. This loss can lead to feelings of grief, sadness, anger, and isolation, all of which are risk factors for suicide. Additionally, adolescents who lose a parent may be more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, further increasing their vulnerability to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The nurse should be particularly concerned if the death of the parent was recent or if the adolescent has not adequately processed their grief.
Choice D Rationale:
While low parental expectations can be a negative influence on an adolescent's self-esteem and motivation, it is not directly linked to an increased risk of suicide. In fact, some studies have suggested that high parental expectations can be equally detrimental to adolescent mental health. Therefore, while low parental expectations may not be a standalone risk factor for suicide, it is important to consider this factor in the context of the adolescent's overall psychosocial assessment.
Summary:
A recent or impending move, a sudden decline in school performance, and the death of a parent at a young age are all significant stressors that can increase the risk of suicidal ideation or behavior in adolescents. The nurse should be alert to these warning signs and conduct a thorough psychosocial assessment to identify any underlying mental health issues or risk factors. Early intervention and support can significantly reduce the risk of suicide and help adolescents cope with these challenging life events.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","F"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Personality disorders are not typically considered to be comorbidities of eating disorders. While some personality traits, such as perfectionism and obsessiveness, may be more common in individuals with eating disorders, these traits do not necessarily
constitute a personality disorder. Additionally, the presence of a personality disorder does not typically increase the risk of developing an eating disorder.
Choice B rationale:
Depression is one of the most common comorbidities associated with eating disorders. Studies have shown that up to 50% of individuals with eating disorders also experience depression. The relationship between eating disorders and depression is complex and bidirectional. Depression can contribute to the development of an eating disorder, and the behaviors associated with eating disorders can also worsen depression.
Choice C rationale:
Breathing-related sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, are not typically associated with eating disorders. While some individuals with eating disorders may experience sleep disturbances, these disturbances are more likely to be related to other factors, such as anxiety or depression.
Choice D rationale:
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is another common comorbidity of eating disorders. Studies have shown that up to 30% of individuals with eating disorders also have OCD. The symptoms of OCD, such as obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, can overlap with the symptoms of eating disorders. For example, an individual with OCD may have obsessive thoughts about food and weight, and they may engage in compulsive behaviors related to eating, such as calorie counting or food restriction.
Choice E rationale:
Schizophrenia is not typically associated with eating disorders. While some individuals with schizophrenia may experience disturbances in eating behavior, these disturbances are more likely to be related to other symptoms of the disorder, such as delusions or hallucinations.
Choice F rationale:
Anxiety is another common comorbidity of eating disorders. Studies have shown that up to 60% of individuals with eating disorders also experience anxiety disorders. Anxiety can contribute to the development of an eating disorder, and the behaviors associated with eating disorders can also worsen anxiety.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
Choice A is incorrect. Alprazolam does not have any known dietary interactions with aged cheeses. This information is specific to monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), not benzodiazepines like alprazolam.
Choice B is incorrect. While some benzodiazepines can have side effects like drowsiness or dizziness that might indirectly affect blood pressure, alprazolam itself is not known to directly cause an increase in blood pressure.
Choice D is incorrect. Doubling the next dose of medication if a dose is missed is dangerous and can lead to overdose and increased risk of serious side effects. The client should be instructed to contact their doctor if they miss a dose.
Choice C is correct. Alprazolam is a pregnancy category D medication, meaning it has positive evidence of fetal risk. Studies have shown an increased risk of birth defects, including cleft lip and palate, in babies exposed to alprazolam during pregnancy. Therefore, it is crucial for women of childbearing age to use a reliable form of contraception while taking alprazolam to prevent unintended pregnancy and potential harm to the fetus.
Additional teaching points for the nurse:
The nurse should inform the client about the specific risks associated with alprazolam during pregnancy and the importance of discussing alternative treatment options if pregnancy is desired.
The nurse should emphasize the importance of using a reliable form of contraception that is effective both during and after treatment with alprazolam, as the medication can remain in the system for some time after the last dose.
The nurse should provide the client with resources on contraception and reproductive health, and encourage her to talk to her doctor about any s or concerns she may have.
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