An older patient admits to feeling worthless and depressed since the death of their spouse. Which health risk is most concerning to the nurse?
1. Suicide
2. Situational depression
3. Dementia
4. Self-harm
1. Suicide
Explanation: 1. Older persons over the age of 65 have the highest suicide rates of all age groups. A major risk factor for suicide is depression. An inappropriate feeling of worthlessness is a symptom of depression.
2. Situational depression is of concern, but it is not the most concerning risk for this patient.
3. The patient is not demonstrating symptoms of dementia.
4. The patient is showing signs of depression, which may lead to the less severe risk of self-harm.
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