An adolescent who was arrested a month ago for gang-related activities has a court order to attend weekly group therapy sessions at the mental health clinic. Today the adolescent's mother calls the clinic nurse to report that her child became angry last night and put a fist through a window. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?
Explanation & Rationale
A. While reinforcing the need for group therapy sessions is important, it does not address the immediate safety concerns associated with violent behavior. Therapy is a long-term solution, but immediate action is necessary to prevent harm. B. Telling the mother to describe her feelings of helplessness to the adolescent is not appropriate. It may increase the adolescent's frustration or aggression, rather than de-escalating the situation. C. Advising the mother to call the police if violent behavior occurs again is the most important intervention. Violent actions, such as putting a fist through a window, indicate a risk for harm to self or others, and law enforcement intervention may be needed to ensure safety. D. Referring the mother for psychiatric evaluation may be helpful if she is experiencing anxiety or depression, but it does not address the immediate concern of the adolescent's violent behavior.