NCLEX RN Exam Bank: Environmental Health Hazards & Occupational Safety in Nursing Practice

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NCLEX PN Exam Bank Crisis Intervention and
Suicide Risk Assessment




Table of Contents
Subtopic 1: Suicide Risk Factors and Warning Signs (Questions 1–20) .............................. 2
Subtopic 2: Crisis Communication Techniques and Therapeutic Responses (Questions 21–
40) ............................................................................................................................. 11
Subtopic 3: Legal and Ethical Considerations in Suicide Prevention (Questions 41–60) .... 19
Subtopic 4: Suicide Precautions, Observation Levels, and Safety Protocols (Questions 61–
80) ............................................................................................................................. 28
Subtopic 5: Therapeutic Communication Strategies in Crisis Settings ............................. 37
Subtopic 6: Therapeutic Communication Techniques in Suicide Prevention .................... 45
Subtopic 7: Legal & Ethical Responsibilities in Suicide Prevention .................................. 54
Subtopic 8: Substance Abuse and Suicide Risk ............................................................. 62
Subtopic 9: Family and Community Involvement in Suicide Prevention ........................... 69
Subtopic 10: Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Community-Based Resources .............. 78

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Subtopic 1: Suicide Risk Factors and Warning Signs
(Questions 1–20)
Question 1:

A nurse is assessing a 16-year-old client admitted to the psychiatric unit following a suicide
attempt. Which of the following statements by the client indicates the highest risk for a
future suicide attempt?

A. "I didn’t really mean to do it."

B. "I feel so much better now that I’m here."

C. "Next time, I’ll make sure no one finds me."

D. "My parents are so angry with me."



Correct Answer: C. "Next time, I’ll make sure no one finds me."

Rationale: This statement demonstrates intent, planning, and determination for a future
attempt. It reflects a serious suicide risk, even if the patient currently appears calm.



Question 2:

A nurse is conducting a suicide risk assessment on an elderly client who has recently lost
his spouse. Which of the following findings would place the client at highest risk for
suicide?

A. Expresses loneliness but maintains hobbies

B. Refuses help from family and friends

C. Has a firearm at home and expresses a specific suicide plan

D. Has mild depressive symptoms and insomnia



Correct Answer: C. Has a firearm at home and expresses a specific suicide plan

Rationale: Access to lethal means and a specific plan indicate high risk. This requires
immediate intervention.

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Question 3:

A newly admitted client with major depressive disorder tells the nurse, “Everyone would be
better off without me.” What should the nurse do first?

A. Reassure the client that things will get better

B. Encourage participation in group therapy

C. Perform a suicide risk assessment

D. Notify the client’s family



Correct Answer: C. Perform a suicide risk assessment

Rationale: Expressions of hopelessness and worthlessness are red flags. The priority is to
assess suicide risk immediately.



Question 4:

Which of the following is a modifiable risk factor for suicide that the nurse should address
during discharge planning?

A. A family history of suicide

B. Age over 65 years

C. Social isolation and lack of support

D. History of childhood abuse



Correct Answer: C. Social isolation and lack of support

Rationale: While age and history are nonmodifiable, social isolation can be addressed
through community referrals and family engagement.



Question 5:

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The nurse is evaluating a client who has chronic pain and a history of alcohol use disorder.
Which additional factor increases the client’s risk for suicide?

A. Use of over-the-counter analgesics

B. History of previous suicide attempts

C. Attendance at a support group

D. Expression of frustration about pain



Correct Answer: B. History of previous suicide attempts

Rationale: A previous attempt is the strongest predictor of future suicide attempts and
should always be treated seriously.



Question 6:

A nurse suspects a high risk of suicide in a newly admitted client. What is the most critical
piece of assessment information to collect?

A. Family history of depression

B. Presence of a specific suicide plan

C. Sleep pattern changes

D. Support system details



Correct Answer: B. Presence of a specific suicide plan

Rationale: The presence of a plan indicates a higher level of intent and risk. It guides
urgency of intervention.



Question 7:

A nurse is caring for a client who states, “I want to go to sleep and never wake up.” What is
the best nursing response?

A. “That sounds like you’re really tired.”