A nurse is leading a crisis intervention group for adolescents who witnessed the suicide of a classmate. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

The correct answer is A: Identify prior coping skills. This should be the first action because understanding the adolescents' coping mechanisms will help tailor the crisis intervention effectively. By knowing their prior coping skills, the nurse can build on what has worked well for them in the past. This approach is client-centered and empowers the adolescents to utilize their strengths during this difficult time. Reviewing community resources (B) can come later once the immediate needs are addressed. Discussing confidentiality (C) is important but not the priority in a crisis situation. Initiating referrals (D) may be necessary eventually but should follow understanding the adolescents' coping skills to ensure appropriate referrals are made.