The nurse is assessing the patient with major depressive disorder. Which characteristic alerts the nurse that the patient may be planning to commit suicide?

Patient is making a will. Generally, patients with major depressive disorder are at increased risk for suicide. Common manifestations of impending suicide include unexpected visit to family and friends, giving away valuables, and making suicide notes. The execution of suicidal thoughts typically happens during improved patient mood and increased energy level, not when the patient appears depressed and refuses to eat. It may be normal for the patient to wish to leave.

The nurse is assessing the patient with major depressive disorder...

Category: Psychosocial Integrity
Difficulty: 5

Topics: Neurology Cognition Communication & Documentation Crisis Management Health Screening Mental Health Disorders

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