Author Question: The parents of identical twins ask a nurse for advice. One twin committed suicide a month ago. Now ... (Read 53 times)

newbem · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

The parents of identical twins ask a nurse for advice. One twin committed suicide a month ago. Now the parents are concerned that the other twin may also have suicidal tendencies. Which reply by the nurse would be most helpful?

a. Genetics are associated with suicide risk. Monitoring and support are important.
b. Apathy underlies suicide. Instilling motivation is the key to health maintenance.
c. Your child is unlikely to act out suicide when identifying with a suicide victim.
d. Fraternal twins are at higher risk for suicide than identical twins.

Question 2

A patient with suicidal impulses is on the highest level of suicide precautions. Which measures should the nurse incorporate into the patient's plan of care? Select all that apply.

a. Allow no glass or metal on meal trays.
b. Remove all potentially harmful objects from the patient's possession.
c. Maintain arm's length, one-on-one nursing observation around the clock.
d. Check the patient's whereabouts every hour. Make verbal contact at least three times each shift.
e. Check the patient's whereabouts every 15 minutes, and make frequent verbal contacts.
f. Keep the patient within visual range while he or she is awake. Check every 15 to 30 minutes while the patient is sleeping.

manuelcastillo · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Twin studies suggest the presence of genetic factors in suicide; however, separating genetic predisposition to suicide from predisposition to depression or alcoholism is difficult. Primary interventions can be helpful in promoting and maintaining health and possibly counteracting the genetic load. The incorrect options are untrue statements or oversimplifications .

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, B, C
One-on-one observation is necessary for anyone who has limited control over suicidal impulses. Plastic dishes on trays and the removal of potentially harmful objects from the patient's possession are measures included in any level of suicide precautions. The remaining options are used in less stringent levels of suicide precautions.