An adolescent presents with symptoms of depression, including ongoing sadness and withdrawal from friends. Which nursing intervention would best support immediate suicide prevention for this adolescent?

A. Refer the adolescent for a comprehensive mental health assessment is the most appropriate immediate intervention for suicide prevention. Adolescents exhibiting persistent sadness and social withdrawal are at increased risk for suicidal ideation. A mental health assessment allows for risk evaluation, safety planning, and prompt initiation of appropriate interventions, including therapy, monitoring, or hospitalization if needed. B. Encouraging increased social activities can support long-term mental health but does not provide immediate safety for an adolescent at risk of suicide. Socialization alone cannot replace professional assessment and intervention. C. Providing information on coping mechanisms and stress management skills is helpful for managing depression over time but is insufficient as a first step in immediate suicide risk prevention. Without assessment, the adolescent may remain at high risk. D. Offering enrollment in a therapeutic group setting can promote social support and coping skills but does not address urgent safety concerns. Immediate assessment is required before initiating group interventions.