Assignment Problem: Jaxton, 19, is brought to the hospital after a suicide attempt. His parents found him in his back yard, wearing his favorite black jeans and black t-shirt, but with one of his father's neckties. He had overdosed on some of his "mother's pills", but his stomach was pumped in time. He has just been admitted to your floor for 24-hour suicide observation.
During intake, Jaxton doesn't speak much, but his parents are able to list the following symptoms they have observed:
- Weight loss and appetite changes
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Worthlessness or guilt
- Loss of interest in his college classes and even the online games he usually plays with friends
- "Constant sadness"
Jaxton's parents have described his lack of interest in things he used to enjoy, like games with his friends, and his classes, which he used to like. Jaxton was just diagnosed with a major depressive disorder.
Answer the following:
Q1. What is your priority assessment?
Q2. How will you assess suicidal ideation and what precautions will you take?
Q3. Identify one priority nursing diagnosis and develop a care plan for Jaxton.