The nurse is caring for a female client who has been seen at the ED multiple times recently for sexually transmitted infections and various physical concerns. When the client's boyfriend goes for coffee, what is the priority nursing action?

A. While looking for tattooing or 'branding' marks can provide evidence of abuse, it is not the first action. This is part of a physical assessment, which should follow establishing safety and rapport with the client. B. Completing a full psychosocial assessment is important, but first the nurse must ensure the client is in a safe environment to disclose sensitive information. A comprehensive assessment can be conducted after addressing immediate safety concerns. C. The priority is to assess for safety and potential abuse. Asking a direct, nonjudgmental question like, "Does anyone you know make you feel unsafe?" allows the client an opportunity to disclose abuse in a safe and private setting. Safety is always the first priority when domestic or intimate partner violence is suspected. D. Following agency policy for reporting is important, but it is not the first action. Nurses must first assess the situation and confirm immediate safety needs before initiating reports. Immediate reporting without client disclosure or context may not address urgent safety concerns.