NCLEX: A client in an outpatient clinic is being evaluated for nursing care related to stress response. Assessment data…

Psychology / lifespan development Clinical Judgment Health Promotion and Maintenance

Case Study

A client in an outpatient clinic is being evaluated for nursing care related to stress response. Assessment data include the client states, "I don't want to live anymore" and has a plan with access to means. Using the clinical judgment model, what is the nurse's first step?

Question

A. Implement the first intervention on the existing care plan without reviewing new data.
B. Evaluate discharge readiness before addressing acute findings.
C. Document the assessment at the end of the shift and continue the prior plan.
D. Recognize and analyze relevant cues to determine whether the client is stable or deteriorating.

Rationale

Correct answer: D. Recognize and analyze relevant cues to determine whether the client is stable or deteriorating.

Rationale: NCSBN clinical judgment begins with recognizing and analyzing cues before taking action or evaluating outcomes.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: Stress response