# A client with depression says, "My family would be better off without me." Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=397460&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Mental Health Concepts  
> category: PSI

## Question

A client with depression says, "My family would be better off without me." Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

## Option

1. You should not say things like that because your family loves you.
2. Try to focus on something positive instead.
3. I will come back later when you feel calmer.
4. Are you thinking about killing yourself? **✔ Correct answer**

**Correct answer: 4**

## Explanation

A direct question about suicide is therapeutic and necessary when a client expresses possible suicidal thinking. It does not plant the idea and helps determine immediate safety needs. Reassurance, distraction, or leaving delays risk assessment.

## In-depth explanation

Clinical Judgment
Use the client cues, timing, labs, and safety risks to select the response that best fits Direct suicide risk assessment.

Memory Tip
Match the strongest cue cluster to the safest nursing judgment.

KR vs US
NCLEX items reward cue-based priority thinking rather than isolated recall.

## Clinical scenario

Clinical Practice Guide
For Direct suicide risk assessment, compare the complete cue pattern with the client's current stability, ordered data, and expected nursing scope.

Caution
Do not choose an action from one isolated cue when the full scenario changes priority or safety.

## Key concepts

- **Suicide Risk** — The possibility that a client may harm or kill themself.
- **Direct Question** — A clear, specific question used to assess risk without ambiguity.
- **Safety Assessment** — Evaluation of immediate danger, intent, plan, means, and protective factors.

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