A patient is being discharged from a psychiatric facility after a suicide attempt. The family consists of the patient, two parents, and two other teenage children. What action should the nurse teach the entire family as a priority?

A.
Assess for drugs or alcohol in the patient's room.
B.
Encourage the patient to take medications.
C.
Monitor the patient for signs of suicidal thoughts.
D.
Plan menus that contain nutritious food items.


ANS: C
Safety is a priority concern in every family and all members should be made aware that the patient could have continued suicidal thoughts. If the siblings notice this, they should be taught to tell the parents immediately and could also be taught some effective communication to use. Looking for drugs or alcohol in the patient's room, encouraging medication use, and planning menus are all actions more appropriate for the parents.

Nursing

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