Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders, Impulse Control Disorders no. 5031

Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders, Impulse Control Disorders no. 5031

QUESTION: Which client is at highest risk for suicide?

✘O a.) One who appears depressed, frequently thinks of dying, and gives away all personal possessions
✓O b.) One who plans a violent death and has the means readily available
✘O c.) One who tells others that he or she might do something if life doesn't get better soon
✘O d.) One who talks about wanting to die

RATIONALE

RATIONALE: The client at highest risk for suicide is one who plans a violent death (for example, by gunshot, jumping off a bridge, or hanging), has a specific plan (for example, after the spouse leaves for work), and has the means readily available (for example, a rifle hidden in the garage). A client who gives away possessions, thinks about death, or talks about wanting to die or attempting suicide is considered at a lower risk for suicide because this behavior typically serves to alert others that the client is contemplating suicide and wishes to be helped.
NURSING PROCESS STEP: Assessment
CLIENT NEEDS CATEGORY: Psychosocial integrity
CLIENT NEEDS SUBCATEGORY: None
COGNITIVE LEVEL: Knowledge