A 45-year-old patient presents to the emergency department with complaints of depression. During the assessment, which of the following findings would be considered the most concerning for imminent suicide risk?
A specific plan for suicide with access to lethal means
A history of previous suicide attempts
Expressing feelings of hopelessness
Recent loss of a loved one
The correct answer is 'A specific plan for suicide with access to lethal means.' This is the most concerning finding because it indicates that the patient has not only thought about suicide but has also formulated a concrete plan and has the means to carry it out. This combination significantly increases the immediacy of the suicide risk.
While 'A history of previous suicide attempts' is a significant risk factor, it doesn't necessarily indicate imminent risk. Similarly, 'Expressing feelings of hopelessness' is a warning sign but doesn't imply immediate danger. 'Recent loss of a loved one' is a potential trigger for suicidal thoughts, but alone it doesn't indicate a high level of imminent risk.
As an emergency nurse, recognizing the severity of a specific plan combined with access to means is crucial for immediate intervention and potentially life-saving actions.
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
All Nursing and Medical Assistants Package plans include the following perks and exams .
Our pricing is simple. Full access to all certifications and exams in each package, for one price.
As many practice tests for as many topics as you want.
Use study mode non-stop, no limits.
Access to our AI assistant, Bash, trained to help you pass your exam.
Track your scores over time in study mode and report cards.
See how you improve over time, and where you need to focus.
All Nursing and Medical Assistants Package plans include unlimited access to the following study materials.
Create an account or sign in to access our study materials.