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Suicide risk — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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HardPsychiatry (outpatient management)Suicide riskUSMLE Step 3

A 48-year-old man with major depression says he plans to shoot himself tonight and has a loaded firearm at home. He refuses to involve family and says nothing will change his mind. He is intoxication-free and medically stable. Which of the following is the most appropriate at this time?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Arrange emergency psychiatric hospitalization and restrict access to lethal means

Specific suicidal intent, plan, means, and refusal of safety measures require emergency psychiatric evaluation and hospitalization.

Reference: APA Practice Guideline for Suicidal Behaviors