An older adult is admitted to the hospital for severe depression. ...

[james0929]

An older adult is admitted to the hospital for severe depression. The nurse, gathering data for a medical and psychiatric history, learns of a suicide attempt 4 years ago after the death of a spouse.
 
  Based on this information, it is likely that the patient:
  a. Will avoid attempting suicide again after the past experience
  b. Will try to minimize the seriousness of the suicide attempt
  c. May express suicidal ideation or make a suicide attempt
  d. Will report that he has recently written a will

Question 2

The nurse asks a patient admitted with a diagnosis of major depression, Do you feel like hurting yourself at this time?
 
  What is the primary rationale for obtaining this information when nothing in the referral note implied that the patient was suicidal?
  a. It is likely that he is hiding the desire to harm himself.
  b. This information must be reported to the patient's physician.
  c. Specific safety measures must be implemented when self-harm is a danger.
  d. Patient safety is always the primary responsibility of the unit's nursing staff.

[covalentbond]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The majority of persons who complete suicides have made previous suicide attempts. The remaining options are not supported by research that indicates the increased risk of suicide associated with a history of such behaviors.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Depression is a disorder linked to suicidal behavior, so it is imperative to ask and then closely observe the patient if he says Yes. The remaining options although true are not the primary rationale for assessing a depressed patient for suicidal ideations.