A nurse on an acute care mental health unit is examining the belongings of a client who is being admitted following a suicide attempt. Which of the following belongings should the nurse ask the client's partner take back home? (Select All that Apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A. Nylon socks. Nylon socks do not pose a significant risk for self-harm and can be safely kept with the client. They are not considered a ligature risk or a hazardous object. B. Cotton underwear. Cotton underwear is not a safety concern in a mental health unit. It does not present a strangulation risk or any other immediate danger. C. Lace-up tennis shoes. Lace-up shoes contain long laces that could be used as a ligature, posing a strangulation risk. Clients in a mental health unit are typically provided with slip-on or Velcro shoes to enhance safety. D. Glass-framed picture of the client's partner. A glass frame poses a significant risk as it can be broken and used as a sharp object for self-harm. The nurse should ask the partner to take it home or provide a safer alternative, such as a laminated photo. E. Necklace. A necklace can be used for strangulation, making it unsafe for a client at risk of self-harm. Removing items that could be used for ligature or harm is essential in suicide prevention.