What should a nurse do first when receiving a call from a client expressing suicidal intent and stating they have a loaded gun?

In situations involving a client expressing suicidal intent and immediate danger, the priority is to establish a connection and open up a line of communication. Encouraging the client to express their feelings allows the nurse to assess the gravity of the situation, build rapport, and understand the client's state of mind. This approach can help in de-escalating the crisis while simultaneously collecting vital information about the client's emotional and psychological condition.

By encouraging the client to talk about their feelings, the nurse demonstrates empathy and support, which can lower the client’s anxiety and make them feel heard. This can also provide the nurse with essential information needed to make informed decisions regarding the client’s safety and appropriate interventions.

The other options do not facilitate a conducive environment for effective communication. Asking for personal information like name and address may be perceived as interrogative in a moment of crisis. Telling the client they are making a mistake might placate the nurse's concerns but risks invalidating the client's feelings, potentially escalating the situation. Suggesting they call a neighbor may not address the immediate danger and can be less effective as a first intervention. Thus, fostering communication first is critical in these urgent scenarios.