A nurse wants to perform a preliminary assessment for suicidal ...

[dollx]

A nurse wants to perform a preliminary assessment for suicidal ideation in an older adult patient. Which question would obtain the desired data?
 
  a. What thoughts do you have about a person's right to take his or her own life?
  b. If you felt suicidal, would you communicate your feelings to anyone?
  c. Do you have any risk factors that potentially contribute to suicide?
  d. Do you think you are vulnerable to developing a depressed mood?

Question 2

An 80-year-old patient has difficulty walking because of arthritis and says, It's awful to be old. Every day is a struggle. No one cares about old people. Which is the nurse's most therapeutic response?
 
  a. Everyone here cares about old people. That's why we work here.
  b. It sounds like you're having a difficult time. Tell me about it.
  c. Let's not focus on the negative. Tell me something good.
  d. You are still able to get around, and your mind is alert.

[Tonny]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
This question is clear, direct, and respectful. It will produce information relative to the acceptability of suicide as an option to the patient. If the patient deems suicide unacceptable, then no further assessment is necessary. If the patient deems suicide as acceptable, then the nurse can continue to assess the patient's intent, plan, and means to carry out the plan, as well as the lethality of the chosen method. The incorrect options are less direct.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The nurse uses empathic understanding to permit the patient to express frustration and clarify the struggle for the nurse. The other options block communication.

[dollx]

TYSM

[mochi09]

Great answer, keep it coming