How does a nurse deal with an adolescent patient who has tried to commit suicide?

Answer 1

Generous acts of kindness. Become a friend. Let them feel by your actions, that you genuinely care about them as an individual, not just another patient. Make sure you are never judgmental about their attempt. However, do not overdo it. If they are breaking the rules, they are challenging you. Don't be afraid to correct current misbehavior. They are looking for a friend who is not so judgmental that they allow them to break rules. As the trust developes, they may open up and start talking about their pain. Again, no judgement, just an open attentive ear.

Answer 2

Tough one. Maybe find some inspirational stories or movies for him to watch or read. Or, find a story about someone who wanted to commit suicide but instead went on to do great things.

Back in the 70's the owner of Casablanca Records (if I recall his story correctly) almost committed suicide, instead he decided to give it one more shot and the rest became history (Donna Summers was one of his discoveries). I had heard that Elton John almost committed suicide, depressed about his early career. He stuck around and the rest is history. Those are two stories from the entertainment industry, but I'm sure there are more from all walks of life. Also, there's plenty of time to be dead and only a few good years of life.

I hope that helps.

Answer 3

Make sure you smile and say good morning or whatever. I f you're not friendly they may think you are judging them and you don't want to make them feel worse

Answer 4

Kindness and respect. It sounds odd, but you'd be surprised how few kids are being treated this way.

Answer 5

like you where trained too do in college