NR 326 Clinical Week 4 Pre-Simulation Questions
Thomas Sykes Scenario 1: Promoting Adolescent Mental Health
Thomas is currently in the formal operational stage of cognitive development and facing the psychosocial stage of identity vs. role confusion. During adolescence, individuals strive to establish their identity, and if they struggle to do so, they may experience confusion and a sense of being lost (Fan & Cen, 2019). This confusion can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts as they may feel disconnected from the world around them.
Several factors can contribute to suicidal thoughts in adolescents, including recent or significant losses, psychiatric disorders, previous suicide attempts, substance abuse, challenges with sexual orientation, a family history of suicide, lack of social support, bullying, low socioeconomic status, and cultural and religious beliefs (Henry et al., 2019). In Thomas’ case, the recent loss of his mother could contribute to his current state of mind.
NR 326 Clinical Week 4 Pre-Simulation Questions
As a nurse, it is essential to establish open and non-judgmental communication focused on promoting health and well-being. This can be achieved through therapeutic communication techniques, such as active listening, silence, focusing, open-ended questions, clarification, paraphrasing, and restating (Henry et al., 2019). It is crucial to avoid challenging, probing, disagreeing, or passing judgments during these interactions. Utilizing these techniques allows the nurse to create a safe and supportive environment for Thomas to express his thoughts and feelings. This will allow for a better understanding of his mental health concerns and facilitate the development of a suitable care plan to address his needs effectively.
Thomas Sykes Scenario 2: Adolescent Health Considerations
Adolescents face an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus due to being overweight, having a sedentary lifestyle, having a family history of diabetes, and belonging to certain racial or ethnic groups (particularly Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Asian American individuals). The utilization of a suicide screening tool enhances patient safety by enabling nurses to identify individuals who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts. This knowledge allows for implementing appropriate suicide precautions to ensure the patient’s well-being. An evidence-based resource that nurses can utilize to assess suicide risk is the ASQ tool (Ask Suicide Screening Questions). This tool is validated, brief, and suitable for use with both youth and adults. The Joint Commission also approves it.
NR 326 Clinical Week 4 Pre-Simulation Questions
When educating adolescent patients and their families about starting pharmacologic therapy for depression, nurses should provide important information. This includes explaining that it may take up to 4 weeks to observe therapeutic effects, emphasizing the importance of not abruptly discontinuing medication and stressing the need to continue therapy even after symptoms improve (Henry et al., 2019). Additionally, it is crucial to inform patients and their families that antidepressant use may increase the risk of suicide, particularly during the initial stages of treatment. This association is most significant among clients under 25 (Henry et al., 2019). Nurses can contribute to their understanding and active participation in managing their health conditions by ensuring that patients and their families are well-informed about these aspects. This education promotes patient safety, supports treatment adherence, and facilitates a collaborative approach to healthcare.
Thomas Sykes Scenario 3: Adolescent Diabetes Management and Suicide Crisis Support
When developing a teaching plan for an adolescent with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the nurse should ensure the inclusion of essential information. This includes educating the patient about a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, emphasizing the importance of regular exercise, promoting frequent blood glucose monitoring, providing education on recognizing symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and advising the patient to carry a source of simple sugar at all times in case of hypoglycemia. When discussing physical activity with an adolescent recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the nurse should provide specific guidance. This includes recommending daily exercise or ensuring that no more than two days pass between exercise sessions, encouraging a combination of aerobic and resistance movements, and stressing the importance of engaging in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week (Fan & Cen, 2019).
NR 326 Clinical Week 4 Pre-Simulation Questions
When a teenager is experiencing a suicide crisis at home, the nurse can offer support and information to the family. This may include providing a list of relevant agencies and telephone numbers the client can contact in an emergency. These resources can offer professional assistance and guidance during difficult times (Fan & Cen, 2019). By incorporating these essential aspects into the teaching plan and providing relevant support information, nurses can empower adolescents and their families to manage diabetes and navigate challenging situations effectively. Education on diabetes self-care and mental health support can significantly contribute to these individuals’ well-being and overall quality of life.
References
Faan, S. L. P. R. A., & Cne, S. A. P. A. F. E. (2019). Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-
RN® Examination, 8e (8th ed.). Saunders. Henry, N. J. E., McMichael, M., Johnson, J., DiStasi, A., Wilford, K. L., Lemon, T., Adcock, S., Assessment Technologies Institute. (2019). RN mental health nursing: Review module.
