A patient who has cut the forearm during a self-harm episode has a spurting wound and pale, cool skin. The patient is awake and breathing normally. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct answer: A. Apply firm direct pressure to the wound
- A. Apply firm direct pressure to the wound
- B. Ask the patient to describe the reason for self-harm
- C. Search the patient’s room for sharp objects
- D. Arrange a routine psychiatric interview
Explanation
Spurting bleeding and signs of poor perfusion make circulation the immediate priority. Firm direct pressure controls external haemorrhage before a detailed psychosocial assessment or environmental search is completed.
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About Psychiatric Emergencies
Psychiatric emergencies include suicidal behavior, homicide risk, severe agitation, panic, acute psychosis, delirium, overdose, and withdrawal states. Students examine rapid risk assessment, crisis intervention, de-escalation, environmental safety, emergency medication, observation levels, and the immediate priorities that differ from routine psychiatric nursing care.
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40 free Psychiatric Emergencies MCQs from Mental Health Nursing, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
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