A client states, "I don't think I can go through this again" after losing a job. What is the nurse's priority action?

In this scenario, the client's statement reflects feelings of distress and potential emotional turmoil due to a job loss. The priority action for the nurse is to assess the client's mental state to ensure their safety and determine the level of distress they are experiencing. Identifying whether the client is displaying psychotic thinking is crucial because it provides insight into their mental health status and the urgency of the situation.

If the client is exhibiting signs of psychotic thinking, such as delusions or hallucinations, immediate intervention is necessary to ensure they receive appropriate care. This assessment can influence the subsequent steps in care, including whether they may need more structured support or psychiatric intervention. Understanding the client's mental safety is paramount in guiding the nurse's response and ensuring the individual's well-being.

Other options, while beneficial in their own right, do not address the immediate need for a mental health assessment. Providing resources for job assistance might be helpful in the long term, but without first ensuring the client is stable, they may not be in a place to effectively utilize those resources. Similarly, encouraging the client to talk about their feelings or referring them to a psychiatrist can be important next steps, but they are most appropriate after first determining the client's current mental state and ensuring their safety. Through this comprehensive evaluation,