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?

While calling an ambulance can be necessary in extreme situations where immediate medical intervention is required, it is not always the first step unless the student is in immediate danger or has made a definitive suicide attempt. The counselor should first assess the level of risk through a proper evaluation.

Involving the school nurse may provide some assistance, but it does not adequately address the urgency of the situation. The school counselor is trained to handle such crises and must directly assess the student's mental health needs, making this option less effective.

While the school resource officer can provide support, their role is primarily focused on safety and security rather than mental health intervention. The counselor's priority should be to assess the student's mental health crisis and ensure proper support is in place through family involvement.