BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse Practice Question
During an assessment in the emergency department, a patient with a history of depression casually mentions that 'things would be easier for everyone if I wasn't around anymore.' Which of the following responses by the nurse demonstrates the best approach to further assess the patient's risk for suicide?
Immediately contact a psychiatrist, as this statement infers a high risk for suicidal ideation
Ask the patient, 'Do you have thoughts of harming yourself or suicide?'
Inform the patient that such thoughts are common and advise them to stay positive
Assess the patient for current substance use as it often coexists with suicidal thoughts
BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse
Mental Health Emergencies
Your Score:
Bash, the Crucial Exams Chat Bot
AI Bot