28. A teacher overhears a student try to talk a friend out of attempting suicide. The teacher refers the suicidal student to the school counselor. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step for the school counselor to take?
Answer: B
Completing a risk assessment with the student, notifying the student's parent or guardian is the most appropriate next step.
The school counselor should prioritize understanding the student's mental state through a risk assessment and ensure that the student's parent or guardian is notified to provide necessary support and intervention.
A) Calling an ambulance for the student to be transported to the emergency room
While calling an ambulance may be necessary in acute situations where the student is in immediate danger, it is not the first step the counselor should take unless there are clear indications of a life-threatening situation. Assessing the level of risk first is essential to determine the appropriate response.
B) Completing a risk assessment with the student, notifying the student's parent or guardian
This option is the most appropriate as it involves assessing the student's mental health risk and ensuring that parents or guardians are informed. This step is crucial for ensuring the student receives the necessary support and intervention based on their specific needs.
C) Asking the school nurse to meet with the student
While the school nurse can provide health-related support, they may not be equipped to handle a mental health crisis effectively. The counselor's role is to conduct a thorough assessment and determine the best course of action, which goes beyond the nurse's typical responsibilities.
D) Asking the school resource officer to meet with the student
Involving a school resource officer may not be appropriate in this context unless there are safety concerns that require law enforcement. The counselor's focus should be on providing emotional support and conducting a risk assessment rather than involving law enforcement at this stage.
Conclusion
Completing a risk assessment and notifying the student's parent or guardian is a critical step in addressing potential suicide risk, as it allows for proper evaluation and support. The other options either do not address the immediate need for mental health assessment or may escalate the situation unnecessarily without first understanding the student's state.