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What should the nursing assistant do when they identify a client who has attempted suicide?
Call security for assistance
Report immediately to the nurse
Reassure the client everything will be fine
Document the incident in the client's chart
The correct answer is: Report immediately to the nurse
When a nursing assistant identifies a client who has attempted suicide, the most appropriate action is to report the situation immediately to the nurse. This choice is critical because the nurse is trained to assess the severity of the situation and to implement appropriate interventions. Prompt reporting ensures that the client receives the necessary medical and psychological support without delay, which is crucial in preventing further harm. This reporting process allows the healthcare team to activate emergency protocols, assess the risk, and provide the client with the required care, including potential psychiatric evaluation and intervention. The nursing assistant's immediate communication of such a serious concern is an essential step in safeguarding the client's well-being and ensuring that appropriate measures are taken. In situations like this, action must be taken swiftly, and while other options may seem important, they do not directly contribute to the immediate care and safety of the client in crisis.