A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a client who verbalized to a family member that they do not want to live anymore after the death of their child. Which of the following assessments should the nurse plan to perform first?

Choice A reason: Asking about a support system is important for long-term safety planning, but it is not the priority in an acute crisis. The nurse must first assess the immediacy and severity of the suicide risk before exploring protective factors. Choice B reason: Inquiring about past suicide attempts is part of a comprehensive suicide risk assessment, but it is not the first step. The priority is to determine current intent and whether the client has a specific plan, which indicates imminent danger. Choice C reason: A psychosocial history provides valuable context but is not the immediate priority in a crisis. It does not directly assess the client’s current risk of self-harm or suicide. Choice D reason: Asking if the client has a plan for ending their life is the most urgent assessment. The presence of a specific plan indicates a higher risk of suicide and requires immediate intervention. This question helps determine the level of risk and guides the urgency of safety measures.