A patient admitted after a suicide attempt suddenly becomes cheerful and energetic, saying, “Everything is sorted out. I feel much better now.” What should the nurse assess first?
- AOption (a)
Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide and whether they have a plan
- BOption (b)
Note the patient’s improved mood in the chart
- COption (c)
Praise the patient for feeling better
- DOption (d)
Ask about their plans for getting a new job
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Correct answer
Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide and whether they have a plan
Why this answer is correct
Correct Answer: Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide and whether they have a plan
Rationale:
- A sudden shift from depression to cheerfulness or calmness after a suicide attempt can be a dangerous sign. It may indicate that the patient has made a decision to attempt suicide again or has already formed a plan, which can temporarily relieve inner conflict and appear as improved mood.
- Because this improvement may be a sign of increased suicide risk, the nurse’s first and most important action is to directly assess suicidal thoughts, intent, and the presence of a plan.
- Asking directly about suicide is not harmful—it is a therapeutic, evidence-based intervention and helps prevent further harm. Patients often feel relieved when someone acknowledges their emotional state openly.
- Assessment should include questions about current suicidal ideation, specific plans, access to means, and readiness to act. This allows the nurse to determine the level of risk and initiate immediate safety measures.
- Therefore, in a patient showing sudden mood improvement after a suicide attempt, the priority is a direct, immediate suicide risk assessment.
Explanation of Other Options:
Note the patient’s improved mood in the chart
- Rationale: Documentation is important, but it is not the first priority. Immediate safety assessment takes precedence.
Praise the patient for feeling better
- Rationale: Praising may discourage the patient from sharing suicidal thoughts and may falsely validate dangerous behavior. It also ignores the warning signs.
Ask about their plans for getting a new job
- Rationale: This shifts focus away from the critical issue and may miss an urgent suicide risk. Psychosocial questions can wait until safety is ensured.
Conclusion:
- A sudden positive change in mood after a suicide attempt is a red flag. The immediate priority is to ask directly about suicidal thoughts and plans to ensure the patient’s safety.
