A patient states, "I'm not worth anything. I have negative thoughts about myself. I feel anxious and shaky all the time. Sometimes I feel so sad that I want to go to sleep and never wake up." Which nursing intervention should have the highest priority?
A) Self-esteem-building activities
B) Anxiety self-control measures
C) Sleep enhancement activities
D) Suicide precautions

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse would place a priority on monitoring and reinforcing suicide self-restraint because it relates directly and immediately to patient safety. Patient safety is always a priority concern. The nurse should monitor and reinforce all patient attempts to control anxiety, improve sleep patterns, and develop self-esteem, while giving priority attention to suicide self-restraint.

A Patient States, "I'm Not Worth Anything