HESI Case Study: Suicide, A Sentinel

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HESI Case Study: Suicide, A Sentinel

Event Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

Which factor is most strongly associated with suicide risk in adults?

• Occasional stress at work
• Chronic physical illness

✔✔C. Previous suicide attempt

• Being in a stable relationship

Which assessment tool is commonly used to evaluate suicide risk?

• Beck Depression Inventory
• Mini-Mental State Exam

✔✔C. Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS)

• Geriatric Depression Scale

Which symptom requires immediate suicide risk assessment?

• Mild anxiety
• Poor sleep 1 / 4

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✔✔C. Expressing hopelessness or wanting to die

• Loss of appetite

Which statement by a patient indicates high suicide risk?

• “I’m feeling a little sad today.”

✔✔B. “I wish I could just disappear.”

• “I’m tired of this long day.”
• “I don’t like my lunch today.”

Which demographic has the highest completed suicide rate?

• Adolescents
• Women

✔✔C. Men over 65

• Children under 12

Which psychiatric disorder most commonly co-occurs with suicide?

• Schizophrenia only
• Bipolar disorder only 2 / 4

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✔✔C. Major depressive disorder

• Generalized anxiety disorder

Which behavior indicates an imminent suicide attempt?

• Talking about daily routine
• Isolating occasionally

✔✔C. Giving away prized possessions

• Skipping a meal

Which is the priority nursing intervention for a suicidal patient?

• Offer counseling pamphlets

✔✔B. Ensure patient safety and constant monitoring

• Provide general reassurance
• Suggest meditation

Which method is most commonly used in completed suicides?

• Overeating
• Jumping into water 3 / 4

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✔✔C. Firearms

• Self-harm with minor cuts

Which factor increases suicide risk after hospital discharge?

• Good family support

✔✔B. Lack of follow-up mental health care

• Stable employment
• Routine sleep schedule

Which sign suggests escalating suicidal ideation?

• Increased appetite
• Improved sleep

✔✔C. Preoccupation with death or dying

• Increased social activity

Which intervention reduces suicide risk in depressed patients?

• Avoid discussing thoughts of death

✔✔B. Openly discuss suicidal thoughts and coping strategies

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