patient with depression reports feeling more suicidal after starting an antidepressant. What should the nurse do?

Choice A rationale A patient reporting an increase in suicidal ideation after starting an antidepressant requires immediate and careful assessment. Encouraging them to continue the medication without evaluation could be dangerous and goes against the principle of patient safety. The patient's report is a critical red flag that must be addressed. Choice B rationale The black box warning for many antidepressants highlights the risk of increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors in some patients, particularly children, adolescents, and young adults. Documenting the patient's report and notifying the healthcare provider immediately is the appropriate and safest course of action to ensure proper management. Choice C rationale Discontinuing an antidepressant abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and rebound depression, potentially worsening the patient's condition. It is not within the nurse's scope of practice to unilaterally discontinue a prescription medication. The healthcare provider must be consulted for a new treatment plan. Choice D rationale Increasing the dose of an antidepressant in a patient who reports increased suicidal ideation is contraindicated. This action could potentially exacerbate the side effects and the patient's symptoms, increasing the risk of self-harm. The provider must evaluate the patient's response and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.