A depressed client on an inpatient unit says to the nurse, “My family would be better off without me.” Which is the nurse’s best response?

“Have you talked to your family about this?”“Everyonefeelsthiswaywhen theyaredepressed.”“You will feel better once your medication begins to work.” “You sound very upset. Are you thinking of hurting yourself?”

Explanation.

Clients who are depressed may be at risk for suicide. It is critical for the nurse to assess suicidal ideation and plan. The nurse should ask the client directly whether a plan for self-harm exists. Options 1, 2, and 3 do not deal directly with the client’s feelings.