Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Which client is at the greatest risk for a suicide attempt among a group of hospitalized clients with psychiatric diagnoses?

1. A female with anxiety disorders

2. A male with major depressive disorder

3. An adolescent with conduct disorder

4. A elderly patient with bipolar disorder

The correct answer is: A male with major depressive disorder

The client with major depressive disorder is at the greatest risk for a suicide attempt due to several key factors associated with this condition. Major depressive disorder is characterized by profound feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and despair, which can lead individuals to perceive their situation as unchangeable and unbearable. This pervasive negativity can contribute to suicidal ideation and attempts. Furthermore, major depression is statistically linked to a higher incidence of suicide compared to other psychiatric disorders. It often includes symptoms such as severely depressed mood, loss of interest in activities, and significant impairment in daily functioning, all of which can exacerbate suicidal thoughts. The male demographic also tends to have a higher risk assessment in terms of completed suicides, particularly in cases of major depression. Although other conditions such as anxiety disorders, conduct disorder, or bipolar disorder (especially in the elderly) also carry their own risks, the severity and nature of potential outcomes in individuals with major depressive disorder typically place them at greater risk when considering the overall population and available statistics on suicide attempts.