Team members have just dealt with the family of a patient who has died by suicide. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate next step?

While solitude can be beneficial for some individuals, it is not the most supportive approach immediately following a traumatic event such as a suicide. Team members may feel isolated and overwhelmed if left alone, which could exacerbate their emotional distress. A collective debriefing allows for shared experiences and mutual support, which is often more effective.

Although having a psychologist present can be helpful, it is not the immediate step needed after such a traumatic event. The focus should be on providing a safe space for team members to express their feelings and process the situation among themselves first, rather than introducing an external authority figure who might shift the dynamic of the discussion.

Individual counseling can be beneficial in the long term, but it is not the most appropriate immediate response after a collective traumatic event. Team debriefing allows for immediate emotional support and communal healing, while individual counseling can follow later as needed for those team members who may require additional support.