A nurse is caring for a client who has just learned that their partner has died by suicide. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Refer the client to a support group for survivors of suicide. While a support group can be beneficial, this is not the first priority. The client is in immediate distress, and the nurse must first assess their emotional state and understanding of the event before providing referrals. B. Offer to contact the client's family or support system. While involving the client's support system is important, the nurse should first assess the client’s immediate emotional and psychological response before reaching out to others. C. Inform the client that feelings of guilt are often felt by survivors of suicide. While guilt is a common reaction, offering this information too early may seem dismissive or overwhelming. The nurse should first assess the client's thoughts and feelings before discussing expected emotional responses. D. Determine the client's understanding of the suicide event. Assessing the client’s perception of the event is the first priority. This helps the nurse gauge emotional distress, risk of self-harm, and the need for immediate crisis intervention. Understanding the client's reaction allows for appropriate emotional support and guidance.