What should a clinician do if an unsupervised client presents with suicidal ideation?

When a clinician encounters an unsupervised client presenting with suicidal ideation, the most appropriate action is to stay in the session until care is clearly transferred. This choice is essential for several reasons.

First and foremost, the safety of the client is the highest priority. Remaining in the session allows the clinician to continuously assess the client’s risk level and respond to their needs in real-time. Maintaining that connection can provide the client with a sense of support and stability during a potentially critical moment.

Additionally, if the clinician leaves the session, it may escalate the client's feelings of abandonment, increasing their distress or potential for acting on suicidal thoughts. Staying present enables the clinician to actively engage the client in safety planning or crisis intervention strategies, which are vital in situations of acute risk.

Furthermore, transferring care involves taking appropriate steps to ensure that the client's safety is managed by a responsible party, which may include contacting crisis services or arranging for further evaluation. This process necessitates the clinician’s presence to facilitate the handoff and ensure proper communication about the client's condition and needs.

Lastly, documenting the encounter and any actions taken is crucial, but it should not come at the expense of directly providing support and interventions during an acute crisis. Prioritizing their immediate safety and well-being