The patient with a history of depression and generalized anxiety disorder presents to the clinic seeking information on advance directives. Which action(s) by the nurse are appropriate? Select all that apply.

Ask, “What would you do if you feel like killing yourself?” , Ask the patient if she has any thoughts of harming herself. , If the patient has suicidal ideation, ask if the patient has a plan for a suicidal act , Collaborate with the patient to identify reasons for living such as relationships, goals, future events. By asking the patient specifically what she would do if she felt suicidal reveals if the patient has a safety plan or a plan to attempt to end her life. Asking the patient if she has thoughts of harming herself opens conversation to suicide and other self-harming behaviors. Determining if the patient has a plan can indicate the level of risk: the more detailed the plan, the higher risk of acting on it. By identifying reasons for living, the healthcare team can determine what, if any, protective factors exist within the patient’s home environment. A nurse speaking about suicide with a client experiencing symptoms of depression should use clear and direct language. Discussing suicide in this case does not increase the likelihood of it happening.

The patient with a history of depression and generalized anxiety ...

Category: Psychosocial Integrity
Difficulty: 7

Topics: Communication & Documentation Crisis Management Mental Health Disorders

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