Routine health assessments of adolescents should include questions that assess the presence of suicidal ideation or intent.

• A. Not at all.
• B. Yes, it should be included.
• C. Only if there are signs.
• D. Only with parental consent.

Answer: (B)

Directly asking about suicidal thoughts is essential because adolescents may not volunteer this information on their own, even when risk is present. Routine, universal screening for suicidal ideation helps identify teens who are at risk early, enabling timely safety planning and referral to appropriate care. Risk can exist without obvious signs, so waiting for symptoms to appear misses opportunities for intervention. If a positive screen occurs, follow with a thorough safety assessment and connect the patient with necessary resources, rather than assuming there is no immediate risk. Parental involvement policies vary by setting, but the need to screen routinely remains clear.