Which statement provides the best rationale for why a nurse should closely monitor a severely depressed client during antidepressant therapy?
"As depression lifts, physical energy becomes available to carry out suicide."
"Suicide may be precipitated by a variety of internal and external events."
"Suicidal clients have difficulty using social supports."
"Suicide is an impulsive act that has no warning."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "As depression lifts, physical energy becomes available to carry out suicide." This statement highlights a critical consideration in the care of severely depressed clients. When a client's depression starts to improve due to antidepressant therapy, there may be a period where they have increased energy but have not yet gained full relief from their depressive thoughts. This can potentially increase the risk of carrying out suicidal thoughts or plans.
B. "Suicide may be precipitated by a variety of internal and external events." While this statement is true, it does not specifically address the importance of monitoring a client during antidepressant therapy.
C. "Suicidal clients have difficulty using social supports." This statement acknowledges a potential challenge for clients who are experiencing suicidal thoughts, but it does not directly relate to the need for close monitoring during antidepressant therapy.
D. "Suicide is an impulsive act that has no warning." This statement is not entirely accurate. While some suicides can be impulsive, many individuals give warning signs or exhibit changes in behavior before attempting suicide.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Kidney function studies While monitoring kidney function is important for clients on certain medications, it is not the primary laboratory test for monitoring clozapine. Clozapine is associated with agranulocytosis, which affects white blood cell count.
B. Red blood cell count Monitoring red blood cell count is not the primary concern when a client is prescribed clozapine. The main concern with clozapine is agranulocytosis, which affects white blood cells.
C. Liver function studies While liver function is important to monitor with some medications, it is not the primary laboratory test for monitoring clozapine. The primary concern with clozapine is agranulocytosis, which affects white blood cell count.
D. White blood cell count Clozapine is associated with agranulocytosis, a potentially life- threatening condition characterized by a severe decrease in white blood cells. Regular
monitoring of white blood cell count is crucial to detect and prevent this adverse effect. This test should be performed before starting clozapine and regularly throughout treatment. If the white blood cell count drops significantly, clozapine may need to be discontinued. This makes it the
most important laboratory study to monitor when a client is prescribed clozapine.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Placing metal utensils on the client's meal tray may pose a safety risk, especially considering the recent suicide attempt.
B) Incorrect. Assigning the client to a private room may be beneficial for privacy, but the more immediate concern is ensuring the safety of the client by inspecting personal belongings.
C) Correct. Inspecting the client's personal belongings is crucial to remove any potentially harmful items that the client may use to harm themselves.
D) Incorrect. Tucking bedcovers over the client's hands and arms is not a specific intervention related to the recent suicide attempt.
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