Pediatric Nursing Q 197
When evaluating a severely depressed adolescent, the nurse knows that one indicator of a high risk for suicide is:
A. Depression
B. Excessive sleepiness
C. A history of cocaine use
D. A preoccupation with death
Correct Answer: D. A preoccupation with death
An adolescent who demonstrates a preoccupation with death (such as by talking about death frequently) should be considered at high risk for suicide. Repeated thoughts of death (not just fear of dying), recurrent suicidal ideation without specific plans; suicide attempt; or a definite plan to commit suicide is also observed.
Option A: The occurrence of the major depressive episode cannot be explained by schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, schizophreniform disorder, delusional disorder, or other specified and unspecified schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders.
Option B: Lack of sleep or excessive sleeping almost every day is not specific only to severely depressed adolescents. The presence of at least 5 specific symptoms in the same 2-week period with a change in the level of function. At least 1 of the items is either a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure. It is important to note that other medical conditions can not explain symptoms.
Option C: Although a history of cocaine use may occur in suicidal adolescents; they also occur in adolescents who are not suicidal. The episode is not due to the physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition.