For an 18-year-old female patient admitted with dehydration secondary to anorexia nervosa, what should be the first intervention when she expresses suicidal thoughts?

Staying with the patient and asking if she has a plan is the most appropriate initial intervention when an individual expresses suicidal thoughts, particularly in a vulnerable population such as an 18-year-old female with anorexia nervosa. This approach serves multiple critical purposes.

First, it ensures the immediate safety of the patient. By remaining with her, the healthcare provider can closely monitor her behavior and emotional state, reducing the risk of self-harm during this critical time. Establishing a connection allows for a supportive environment where the patient may feel more comfortable discussing her thoughts and feelings.

Secondly, inquiring about whether she has a plan is vital for assessing the level of risk. Understanding her intentions and the specifics of any potential plan can guide the healthcare provider in forming a more effective response, including potential referrals for psychiatric evaluation or crisis intervention.

The other options, while potentially beneficial at a later stage, do not prioritize immediate safety and risk assessment first. Providing information about counseling or contacting social services could be important later but does not address the urgent need to understand and mitigate the risk of suicide. Encouraging dialogue with a family member may also be supportive but does not directly address the patient’s current state or provide the necessary safety measures needed at that moment. Thus, ensuring