7. A nurse assesses an adolescent client in a psychiatric emergency department for suicidal ideation. The client's parents are preoccupied with divorce proceedings. Which problem should the nurse suspect that this client is experiencing?
7. A nurse assesses an adolescent client in a psychiatric emergency department for suicidal ideation. The client's parents are preoccupied with divorce proceedings. Which problem should the nurse suspect that this client is experiencing?
. Oppositional defiant disorder related to parental separation.
. Acute traumatic stress disorder related to family stress.
. Mood disorder related to role reversal.
. Adjustment disorder related to parental separation.
Test-Taking Tip
Answers 1 and 2 are incorrect because the situation does not suggest these issues at all. Answer 3 is close, but still incorrect because the adolescent is not switching roles with either parent.
Content Area: Mental Health, Anxiety; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Psychosocial Integrity/Stress Management
.
Answer 1 is incorrect because oppositional defiant disorder is characterized by defiant behaviors (e.g., truancy and lying) and opposition to authority. Answer 2 is incorrect because this disorder is characterized by intrusive thoughts, memories that are emotionally painful, and increased anxiety. Answer 3 is incorrect because the client is not having role reversal issues (e.g., taking on the role of one or both parents). Answer 4 is correct because this is a typical disorder experienced by adolescents whose parents are experiencing marital problems; suicidal ideation is short-lived and usually related to separation or divorce.