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Psychiatric / mental health nursing · practice question

A 16-year-old adolescent on an adolescent psychiatric unit is being evaluated for agitation on an inpatient psychiatric unit. Assessment data include the client states, "I don't want to live anymore" and has a plan with access to means. Which assessment approach should the nurse use first?

Multiple choiceHardnclex-rn-bsnnclex-validatednclex-2026psychiatric-mental-health
Choose one answer
Answer and explanation

Correct answer

C. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.

Why

Assessment begins with stability screening and focused data collection before invasive or delayed actions.

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