Risk for self-mutilation

Risk for self-mutilation

Domain 11. Safety-protection
Class 3. Violence
Diagnostic Code: 00139
Nanda label: Risk for self-mutilation
Diagnostic focus: Self-mutilation

Nursing Diagnosis: Risk for Self-Mutilation

Introduction to Nursing Diagnosis

Nursing diagnoses play a vital role in the nursing process. A nursing diagnosis is a clinical judgment about individual, family or a community’s responses to real or potential health problems or life processes. The purposes of a nursing diagnosis are to identify human responses to health problems and life processes that can be managed through nursing interventions.

NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition

The NANDA-International (NANDA-I) is the official provider of standardized nursing diagnoses which are used to accurately reflect the individual needs of patients. An example of one such diagnosis is the nursing diagnosis “Risk for Self-Mutilation”, which is defined as a “potential for self-inflicted physical harm”. This means individuals may attempt to harm themselves due to stress, depression, anxiety, or any other related condition, and that they may need intervention.

Risk Factors

There are numerous risk factors associated with this diagnosis. These include but are not limited to: History of substance abuse, History of trauma or exposure to violence, History of mental illness, inherited risks (genetic, biological, or psychological predisposition to self-harm or suicidal behavior), Hormonal imbalances, feelings of isolation or hopelessness, lack of social support, negative or traumatic life events, availability of lethal means, exposure to others who self-injure, and impulsivity.

At Risk Population

This diagnosis affects people from all walks of life, but some populations may be more at-risk than others. These include but are not limited to: adolescents and young adults, those with a history of mental illness and/or substance abuse, victims of abuse and neglect, those experiencing extremely stressful life events, and individuals with impulsivity disorders.

Associated Conditions

Self-mutilation can be associated with several different mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It can also be seen in people with borderline personality disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Suggestions for Use

When using this diagnosis, it is important to consider the potential psychological strain that may be incurred from the patient’s actions. Any presenting signs of self-mutilation should be thoroughly explored, and the patient’s underlying motivations should be assessed. If indicated, referral to a mental health professional should be considered. Additionally, any signs of abuse or neglect should be taken into consideration and a child protective services referral may need to be made.

Suggested Alternative NANDA Nursing Diagnoses

Depending on the patient’s situation, several other nursing diagnoses may be applicable. These include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, Hopelessness, Ineffective Individual Coping, Impaired Social Interaction, Ineffective Relationship Patterns, Risk for Suicide, and Deficient Knowledge.

Usage Tips

When determining whether this diagnosis is appropriate, it is important to remember that self-mutilation has various aspects that should be evaluated. A thorough assessment of the individual’s current situation should be done to determine if the behavior is being done intentionally or if it is due to a psychiatric disorder. Additionally, it is important to assess the individual’s understanding of how dangerous self-mutilation is, and to obtain information about any history of the behavior.

NOC Outcomes

When using this diagnosis, it is important to consider the potential outcomes of this behavior. These include, but are not limited to: Safe Coping, Social Interaction, Self-Control, Self-Concept, Self-Responsibility, and Self-Regulation.

Evaluation Objectives and Criteria

The desired outcome of this diagnosis is that the individual will demonstrate safe coping strategies in order to reduce the risk of self-mutilative behavior. To evaluate the success of this diagnosis, it is important to observe changes in coping, interaction, and responsibility behaviors.

NIC Interventions

The following nursing interventions may be indicated when dealing with this diagnosis: Crisis Intervention, Cognitive Restructuring, Assertive Training, Supportive Listening, Psychoeducation, Skill Coaching and Training, Mental Health Therapy Referral, Activity Planning, and Patient/Family Education.

Nursing Activities

When dealing with this diagnosis, it is important to ensure that the patient feels heard, respected, and safe. It is also essential to provide support, education, and resources to help the patient cope. Additionally, it is important to provide knowledge about other coping mechanisms and to monitor the patient’s progress. Finally, it is important to refer the patient to therapy if warranted.

Conclusion

Nursing diagnosis: Risk for Self-Mutilation is a complex issue that needs to be addressed with sensitivity and care. Through screening, assessment, and interventions, nurses can provide the necessary care and support to reduce the risk of self-mutilation. By focusing on the individual’s underlying motivations and providing education and resources, nurses can help mitigate the risk and help the individual find healthier coping mechanisms.

FAQs

What is a nursing diagnosis?
A nursing diagnosis is a clinical judgment about individual, family or a community’s response to real or potential health problems or life processes. The purpose of a nursing diagnosis is to identify human responses to health problems and life processes that can be managed through nursing interventions.

What is the NANDA nursing diagnosis definition of Risk for Self-Mutilation?
The NANDA-International (NANDA-I) is the official provider of standardized nursing diagnoses. The definition of Risk for Self-Mutilation is a “potential for self-inflicted physical harm”.

What are some of the risk factors associated with this diagnosis?
Risk factors associated with this diagnosis include but are not limited to: History of substance abuse, History of trauma or exposure to violence, History of mental illness, inherited risks (genetic, biological, or psychological predisposition to self-harm or suicidal behavior), Hormonal imbalances, feelings of isolation or hopelessness, lack of social support, negative or traumatic life events, availability of lethal means, exposure to others who self-injure, and impulsivity.

Who is at risk for this diagnosis?
This diagnosis affects people from all walks of life, but some populations may be more at-risk than others. These include but are not limited to: adolescents and young adults, those with a history of mental illness and/or substance abuse, victims of abuse and neglect, those experiencing extremely stressful life events, and individuals with impulsivity disorders.

What mental health conditions can be associated with self-mutilation?
Self-mutilation can be associated with several different mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It can also be seen in people with borderline personality disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

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