Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Test

The significant risk factor for suicide identified in the question is the history of previous suicide attempts. This is a well-established factor in suicide risk assessments, as individuals who have previously attempted suicide have a heightened risk for future attempts. Research indicates that having a history of suicide attempts is one of the strongest predictors of future behavior, as it may indicate underlying mental health conditions, emotional distress, or unresolved psychological issues that need to be addressed.

In contrast, being under the age of 25 is associated with certain developmental challenges and mental health risks, but it is not as strong a predictor as previous attempts. Increased income generally contributes to improved overall well-being and may lower stress levels, making it a protective factor instead of a risk factor. Additionally, being in stable mental health significantly decreases the likelihood of suicide, demonstrating that the absence of mental health crises is protective against such adverse outcomes.