Editing Mental Health and Psychosocial Nursing – LPN Flashcards (section)

== Observing and Reporting ==

;What is the LPN's central role in mental health nursing?
:Collect data, observe and accurately describe behavior, reinforce teaching, implement the established plan of care, and report changes promptly to the supervising registered nurse, who performs the initial assessment and revises the plan.

;How should behavior be documented?
:Objectively and specifically, describing what was seen and heard rather than interpreting it. Write "Client paced the hallway for 20 minutes, clenched fists, and stated 'I can't take this'" rather than "Client was agitated and hostile."

;A withdrawn, depressed client suddenly becomes cheerful and energetic. What does this mean and what does the LPN do?
:A sudden unexplained lift in mood in a previously despondent client may mean the client has decided on suicide and feels relief. Report it to the registered nurse immediately and maintain the current level of observation. Do not treat it as simple improvement.

;Name four warning signs of suicide the LPN reports immediately
:Statements about wanting to die or being a burden, giving away prized possessions, saying goodbye or settling affairs, and any request for potentially harmful items such as shoelaces, belts, cords, razors, or glass. Cheeking or hoarding medication is another.

;What does the LPN do first when a client states an intention to kill himself tonight?
:Stay with the client and use the call system or another staff member to alert the registered nurse. Never leave a client with suicidal intent alone, and never delay for documentation.

;What is medication "cheeking," and why does it matter?
:Cheeking is holding a pill in the mouth and later spitting it out to avoid taking it or to hoard it. It matters because the client is untreated and may be saving doses for an overdose. Watch the client swallow, check the mouth, and report it.

;Which safety items are removed from a client at risk for suicide?
:Belts, shoelaces, cords and charger cables, plastic bags, sharps and razors, glass, lighters, and any medication brought from home. Search belongings according to facility policy.