Question

A 19-year-old university student presents to the emergency department saying he has collected pills and intends to take them tonight. He has a history of prior suicide attempt and currently expresses hopelessness but is cooperative. Which is the most appropriate immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Ensure constant observation, remove access to means, and arrange emergency psychiatric assessment with consideration of involuntary admission if necessary

Answer

Discharge with crisis line information only

Answer

Arrange urgent outpatient counselling without further action

Answer

Tell him to return if he still feels suicidal in a week

Answer

Start an antidepressant and discharge him home

Practice question

A 19-year-old university student presents to the emergency department saying he has collected pills and intends to take them tonight. He has a history of prior suicide attempt and currently expresses hopelessness but is cooperative. Which is the most appropriate immediate management?