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Direct Suicide Risk Assessment Question — SCE Palliative Medicine MCQ

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HardPsychological & PsychiatricDirect Suicide Risk Assessment QuestionSCE Palliative Medicine

A man with pancreatic cancer says, “My family would be better off if I did not wake up.” Which next response most improves immediate risk formulation?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Explore suicide risk through a direct collaborative safety assessment

The statement requires direct, compassionate assessment of ideation, intent, planning, access to means, previous behaviour, protective factors and immediate safety. Asking does not create suicidal thoughts. A symptom score or collateral account can add information but cannot replace speaking with the patient. Imminent risk requires urgent safeguarding, supervision and crisis or psychiatric support rather than routine follow-up.

Reference: NHS England: Staying safe from suicide: https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/staying-safe-from-suicide/