The nurse is caring for a patient who is having difficulty coping after being in a motor vehicle accident in which her brother was killed. The patient was driving the car and blames herself for the accident. What is the priority nursing intervention of the nurse?
A) Check to make sure that the patient does not want to hurt or kill herself.
B) Educate the patient about available support systems for grief resolution.
C) Enhance the patient's coping skills to alleviate depression and anxiety.
D) Encourage the patient to meet with a spiritual leader for guidance.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The highest priority for the nurse is to ensure the safety of the patient, so assessment of potential suicidal tendencies is paramount. The other interventions can take place once the nurse is confident that the patient will not try to hurt or kill herself.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Having