A 30-year-old patient comes to the emergency department after being found sitting on a park bench, staring blankly ahead. Upon assessment, the nurse notes the patient has expressed feelings of hopelessness, references plans for ending their life, and states they have 'nothing to live for.' What is the priority nursing intervention?
Discharge the patient with a follow-up appointment.
Initiate a detailed suicide risk assessment.
Recommend the patient engages in physical activity to improve mood.
Provide reassurance and encourage the patient to talk about their feelings.
The priority intervention is to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment for suicide based on the patient's expressed ideation and potential plans. Understanding the specifics of the patient's intent, prior attempts, and current support systems is essential in determining the level of care and intervention needed. While all listed options may seem appropriate, directly addressing the risk of suicide through assessment is paramount to ensure patient safety.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What does a detailed suicide risk assessment involve?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
Why is patient safety the priority in cases of suicidal ideation?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
How can healthcare professionals effectively engage a patient who is expressing suicidal thoughts?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
BCEN CEN
Mental Health Emergencies
Your Score:
Report Issue
Bash, the Crucial Exams Chat Bot
AI Bot
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Nursing and Medical Assistants Package Join Premium for Full Access