Study Solutions
1. Communication Techniques: Depression, Suicide, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder,
Feed& Eating Disorders
-Use firm and calm approach : " Jonh, come with me. Eat this sandwich."
-Use short and concise explanation or statement. ( Use simple, concrete words)
-Be consiste in approach and expectations.
-Identify expectation in simple, concrete term with consequences. Example : "John, do not yell at or hit
Peter. If you cannot control yourself, we will help you." Or " The seclusion room will help you feel less
out of control and prevent harm to yourself and other"
-Hear and act on legitimate complaints ( Listen for covert messages)
-Firmly redirect energy into more appropriate and constructive channels.
-Allow time for a response
-Ask about suicide plans
-Avoid platitudes ( statement that may be true but is boring and has no meaning because it has been
said so many times before)
-When a patient is silent : avoid direct questions and make observations to reinforce reality
-Monitor intake, output, and vital signs : offer frequent, high-calorie protein drink and finger food(
sandwich, fruit, milkshake)
Communication Technique for Depression and Suicide
Use short and concise explanations or statements with simple, concrete words.
Communication Technique for Personality Disorders
Be consistent in approach and expectations.
Communication Technique for Bipolar Disorder
Identify expectations in simple terms with consequences.
Communication Technique for Dealing with Aggression
Firmly redirect energy into more appropriate and constructive channels.
Communication Technique for Addressing Silent Patients
Avoid direct questions and make observations to reinforce reality when a patient is silent.
Communication Technique for Suicide Risk Assessment
Ask about suicide plans.
, Communication Technique for Handling Complaints
Hear and act on legitimate complaints, listening for covert messages.
Communication Technique for Encouraging Response
Allow time for a response.
Communication Technique for Avoiding Clichés
Avoid platitudes (statements that lack meaning due to overuse).
2. Nursing interventions: Depression, suicide, bipolar disorder, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa,
Binge-Eating Disorder
Nursing interventions for depression
-Assess risk: Ask patients about their medical and medication history, and screen for self-harm.
-Prioritize safety: Remove sharp objects and other items that could be used for self-harm.
-Encourage self-care: Help patients eat well, sleep, and participate in activities.
-Support therapy: Reinforce therapy techniques, such as challenging negative thoughts.
-Monitor medications: Check the effectiveness and side effects of medications.
-Consider culture: Consider how culture may impact the patient's perception of their illness
Nursing interventions for suicide
-Risk assessment: review the patient's history, use a standardized questionnaire, and perform a mental
status exam.
-Safety plan: create a written plan with the patient, healthcare team, and support system. Include warning
signs, coping strategies, and how to access professional help.
-Environment: remove dangerous items, limit access to windows and exits, and ensure exits are secure.
-Observation: closely observe patients at risk, and consider using a sitter.
Communication: use therapeutic communication techniques, and explain that observation is for the
patient's safety.
-Psychiatric consult and suicide prevention lifeline
- Coping strategies: help the patient identify coping strategies, and encourage them to discuss their
emotions.
Pharmacotherapy: educate patients about pharmacological treatments, and help them control side
effects.
Adherence: promote patient adherence to treatment through postcards, phone calls, home visits, or letters
of support.
--Nurses can: Stay with the patient: If a patient expresses suicidal thoughts, stay with them and
notify a healthcare provider.