The nurse is caring for a client in the emergency department (ED) after an assault by the spouse. The client has a history of similar emergency visits. Which action best assists the client?

A. Provide guidance to identify triggering behaviors: Asking the client to identify triggers may imply blame or responsibility for the assault, which can be harmful and counterproductive. In intimate partner violence, the perpetrator is responsible, and focusing on triggers can unintentionally reinforce victim-blaming, rather than supporting immediate safety. B. Develop a plan for initiating a rapid exit: Safety planning is the most critical intervention for clients experiencing repeated assaults. Assisting the client to develop a rapid exit plan, including identifying safe exits, emergency contacts, and resources, empowers the client to respond quickly during future dangerous situations and reduces the risk of further harm. This intervention addresses immediate risk and is prioritized in emergency care. C. Advise couple's counseling as the next step: Recommending couple's counseling is inappropriate in situations of ongoing intimate partner violence. Counseling in this context can place the client at greater risk, as it may give the abuser access to the victim and could normalize the abuse. Professional guidance focuses on safety and support rather than reconciliation. D. Complete a Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9): Screening for depression using the PHQ-9 can help identify mental health needs and inform follow-up care. However, addressing psychological symptoms is secondary to ensuring the client’s immediate physical safety and reducing risk of further violence.