Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

For a nurse caring for a client with both panic disorder and depression, which assessment is a priority?

1. Alcohol use

2. Suicidal tendencies

3. Sleep patterns

4. Social support

The correct answer is: Suicidal tendencies

In the context of caring for a client with both panic disorder and depression, assessing for suicidal tendencies is a crucial priority. This is because both conditions can significantly increase the risk of suicidality. Depression can lead to feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, while panic disorder often leads to heightened anxiety, which can exacerbate depressive symptoms. Therefore, understanding the client's thoughts and feelings regarding self-harm or suicide is essential for preventing potential harm and ensuring that appropriate interventions can be put in place. While other factors such as alcohol use, sleep patterns, and social support are important components of the overall assessment and can contribute to the client's mental health state, they do not take precedence over evaluating suicidal tendencies. Addressing suicidality directly is critical, as it may require immediate action or intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.