During a crisis intervention, what should be evaluated to ensure client safety?

Evaluating potential physical and emotional risks is essential in crisis intervention because the priority in any crisis situation is the safety and well-being of the client. Understanding these risks helps in identifying immediate threats to the client, which could include self-harm, suicide, or harm to others. This evaluation provides the framework for developing a safety plan, enabling the interventionist to address and mitigate specific dangers the client may face.

This kind of assessment ensures that appropriate support mechanisms are put in place and that the environment the client is in is safe. It also enables the interventionist to respond effectively to the client's emotional state and to provide the necessary resources or referrals that may be required to manage these risks.

While assessing the client’s existing skills, previous successes, and current economic status can provide useful context in the overall picture of the client's situation, it’s the direct evaluation of risks that is most critical in immediately safeguarding the client's health and safety during a crisis.