Question

Which type of room accommodation would the nurse recommend for a suicidal client? a. Multibed room with active, alert clients b. Double room with a quiet, inactive client c. Private room near the nurse’s station d. Private room at a quiet place on the unit

Short answer

Option c: Private room near the nurse’s station

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Question

The question asks which type of room accommodation is most appropriate for a suicidal client. Different room options are presented, and the goal is to choose the best one that ensures the client's safety and well-being.

Analyze Each Option

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each room type given the client's risk of self-harm.

Evaluate Option A

Option a describes a multibed room with active, alert clients. One advantage is the presence of other clients who could potentially notice and prevent self-harm. However, this option lacks direct supervision by medical staff, which might not be sufficient to ensure safety.

Evaluate Option B

Option b describes a double room with a quiet, inactive client. This option might not provide the necessary constant supervision and the quiet, inactive environment might not provide the necessary stimulation or quick intervention.

Evaluate Option C

Option c describes a private room near the nurse’s station. The proximity to the nurse's station provides a high level of supervision and the ability to quickly intervene if necessary, making it a safer choice for a suicidal client.

Evaluate Option D

Option d describes a private room at a quiet place on the unit. Although a private room could prevent interactions that might be overwhelming, the quiet and isolated location might not provide the immediate supervision needed for a suicidal client.

Choose the Best Option

Considering the need for safety and close supervision, the best option is a private room near the nurse’s station.

Key concepts

Suicidal Client Safety

When accommodating a suicidal client, safety is the foremost priority. It involves creating an environment that minimizes the risk of self-harm. Ensuring safety includes:

• Removing potential tools for self-harm (sharp objects, belts, ropes).
• Monitoring the client continuously.
• Providing a safe space where the client can't escape supervision.

Selecting an appropriate room is a key aspect of this safety. A private room near the nurse's station offers quick access for medical staff, which is critical in emergencies. The location allows frequent check-ins, ensuring the client remains under constant surveillance, greatly reducing the risk of sudden incidents.

Nursing Interventions

Nurses play a crucial role in the care of clients at risk of suicide. Effective nursing interventions focus on immediate and ongoing actions to ensure the client's physical and psychological safety. Interventions include:

• Conducting regular assessments to gauge the client's mental state.
• Engaging in active listening to understand the client's thoughts and feelings.
• Creating a safety plan tailored to the individual's needs.

Continuous assessment helps to identify any changes in the client’s risk level quickly. Being near the nurse’s station ensures that these assessments can be frequent and thorough, enabling a prompt response to the client's needs.

Patient Supervision

Continuous supervision is essential for suicidal clients to ensure they do not harm themselves. Key aspects of supervision include:

• Keeping the client in a visible and accessible area for medical staff.
• Performing regular and random checks on the client.
• Using surveillance tools, if appropriate, within ethical guidelines.

A private room close to the nurses allows for heightened supervision. The medical team can monitor the client visually and intervene swiftly if any signs of distress or self-harm emerge. It's about finding a balance between providing privacy and ensuring safety.

Mental Health Care

Providing mental health care to suicidal clients involves a multi-faceted approach. This includes:

• Ensuring a therapeutic environment that promotes healing.
• Collaborating with mental health professionals to develop treatment plans.
• Offering ongoing support through counseling and therapy sessions.

Locations close to the nurse’s station facilitate this care by allowing for frequent interaction with mental health professionals. This proximity ensures that the client receives continuous emotional support and medical attention, which are crucial components of effective mental health care. The goal is to provide a supportive environment that addresses both immediate safety concerns and long-term mental health needs.