Why should a nurse use one-on-one supervision for a client who expresses feeling much better after severe depression?

One-on-one supervision for a client who has recently expressed feeling much better after experiencing severe depression is critical because this newfound energy may lead to actions that were previously limited by their depressive state. Individuals recovering from severe depression can sometimes experience a significant increase in energy before the depressive symptoms have fully resolved. This does not automatically indicate improvement in their mental health risk factors, particularly when there are underlying thoughts or plans regarding self-harm or suicide.

When a client appears to feel better, it can be misleading, as their mental state may still be precarious. Increased energy can lead to heightened activity levels that may include the execution of a suicide plan, which is why close monitoring is essential to ensure safety. The risk of acting on suicidal thoughts often increases when an individual feels a surge in energy because they may have the capability to follow through on these thoughts.

Overall, one-on-one supervision in this context is a precautionary measure to protect the client and to ensure they receive the necessary support as they continue to navigate their recovery path.