When caring for a client indicating feelings of worthlessness and potential self-harm, what should be the nurse’s priority action?

Conducting continual assessments for suicidal ideation is the priority action when caring for a client expressing feelings of worthlessness and potential self-harm. This approach directly addresses the immediate safety concerns related to the client's mental health status. Continual assessments allow the nurse to monitor changes in the client’s thoughts and behaviors, which is crucial in determining the level of risk for self-harm or suicide.

By maintaining a consistent evaluation of suicidal ideation, the nurse can identify escalating risks, provide timely interventions, and ensure that appropriate safety measures are in place. This proactive strategy is essential for protecting the well-being of the client and helps to establish a therapeutic environment where safety is prioritized.

While assessing the client’s mental health history, encouraging engagement in group therapy, and developing a daily routine are also important aspects of comprehensive mental health care, they do not take precedence over the urgent need to evaluate and monitor the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The priority is to ensure the client's immediate safety before focusing on long-term treatment strategies.