Question

which of the following would suggest to you that a patient is at an increased risk of suicide?

sudden improvement from depression.
thought about death after seeing an autopsy.
an 8-year-old who is being held back in school.
just received a job promotion he was expecting.

Explanation:

Analyze the clinical significance of sudden mood changes

Using the Suicidal Ideation Assessment knowledge point
A sudden, unexplained improvement in a severely depressed patient's mood is a well-documented clinical warning sign for an increased risk of suicide. This abrupt shift often occurs because the patient has made a definitive decision to end their life, which brings a sense of relief, closure, or a surge of energy to carry out their plan.

Evaluate the remaining options

• Thought about death after seeing an autopsy: This is a situational, context-appropriate thought rather than an indicator of active suicidal ideation or increased risk.
• An 8-year-old who is being held back in school: While academic difficulties are stressors, being an 8-year-old held back does not statistically represent a primary high-risk indicator for suicide compared to a sudden resolution of severe depression.
• Just received a job promotion he was expecting: This is a positive life event that typically reduces immediate psychological distress and does not suggest an increased risk.

Answer:

• (A) Sudden improvement from depression. (Correct answer)
• (B) Thought about death after seeing an autopsy.
• (C) An 8-year-old who is being held back in school.
• (D) Just received a job promotion he was expecting.