Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What should be assessed regarding family history in a patient admitted for depression with suicidal thoughts?

1. Presence of mental illness in family members

2. History of suicides in the family

3. Previous hospitalization of family members

4. Family support systems

The correct answer is: History of suicides in the family

When assessing family history in a patient admitted for depression with suicidal thoughts, focusing on the history of suicides in the family is particularly important. This aspect of family history can indicate a potential genetic or environmental predisposition to suicidality. The presence of suicide in a family can reflect underlying patterns of mental health issues that may contribute to the patient's current condition. Recognizing such patterns can help healthcare providers understand the intensity of the patient's situation and formulate appropriate care and intervention strategies. While other factors like the presence of mental illness in family members, previous hospitalizations, and family support systems are important in a comprehensive assessment, the direct link between past suicides and the increased risk of suicidality in the patient makes this aspect especially critical. Understanding this history can inform risk assessments and guide therapeutic approaches while emphasizing the need for vigilance in monitoring patients with similar backgrounds.