12. A client, who is severely depressed, is unable to contract for safety. Which nurse would be most appropriate to care for this client?
12. A client, who is severely depressed, is unable to contract for safety. Which nurse would be most appropriate to care for this client?
. A charge RN with 17 years' experience in a psychiatric/mental health unit who routinely takes a one- or two-client assignment.
. An experienced medical-surgical float nurse who assists in break relief.
. A new graduate RN who has not cared for a client experiencing severe depression.
. An RN with 3 years' experience in a psychiatric/mental health unit who has been on leave for 2 months.
Test-Taking Tip
Eliminate Answers 1, 2, and 3 because these place the client's safety at risk. Always think safety first.
Content Area: Mental Health, Management of Care; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Analysis; Client Need/Subneed: Safe and Effective Care Environment/Management of Care/Delegation
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Answer 1 is incorrect because the nurse who has charge nurse responsibilities may not be able to keep a client in constant view. Answer 2 is incorrect because the nurse has experience as a medical-surgical float nurse but may not have been consistently assigned to the mental health unit. Answer 3 is incorrect because the new graduate may not be qualified to care for a client at risk for self-harm, due to lack of experience. Answer 4 is correct because the nurse is experienced in working with clients who are at risk for self-harm.