In a case of a suicide attempt, what is the nurse's initial action?

In cases of a suicide attempt, the nurse's primary responsibility is to ensure the immediate safety and physical well-being of the patient. Therefore, the initial action involves examining and treating any wound sites. This is crucial because patients who have attempted suicide may have inflicted harm on themselves, leading to potential life-threatening injuries. Addressing these injuries allows healthcare professionals to stabilize the patient's condition, preventing further complications.

Once the physical safety is secured, other important steps such as obtaining a detailed history, encouraging the client to express feelings, or administering medications can follow as part of a broader assessment and treatment plan. However, the immediate concern is to manage any physical injuries resulting from the attempt first, which justifies the choice to prioritize wound care initially.