ATI RN Mental Health Asn Related

Review ATI RN Mental Health Asn related questions and content

A nurse on a mental health unit is caring for clients who have various depressive disorders. The nurse should identify which of the following client diagnoses as presenting the greatest risk for suicide?

  • A. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
  • B. Seasonal affective disorder
  • C. Major depressive disorder
  • D. Persistent depressive disorder
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Major depressive disorder. Clients with major depressive disorder are at the highest risk for suicide due to the severity of their symptoms, including feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and suicidal ideation. This diagnosis is associated with a higher rate of completed suicides compared to other depressive disorders. Clients with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (A) experience mood changes related to their menstrual cycle but do not typically have an increased risk of suicide. Seasonal affective disorder (B) is characterized by seasonal changes in mood and energy levels but is not typically associated with a high risk of suicide. Persistent depressive disorder (D) involves chronic depressive symptoms but does not necessarily indicate an increased risk of suicide.