A client with depression states, 'I just don't see the point in anything anymore.' What is the nurse's priority response?

A statement of HOPELESSNESS ('don't see the point in anything') from a depressed client is a potential warning sign — the PRIORITY is to ASSESS for SUICIDAL IDEATION by asking DIRECTLY ('Are you having thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life?'). NCLEX psychosocial/mental health safety. Asking directly does NOT increase suicide risk — it opens communication and allows assessment and intervention. AVOID: false reassurance ('things will get better'), minimizing/dismissing ('you have so much to live for' — can increase guilt), or changing the subject (avoids the concern). If suicidal ideation is present, assess for a plan/means, ensure safety (don't leave alone, remove means), and notify the team. Directly assessing suicide risk when warning signs appear is a critical, heavily tested NCLEX concept.