A 26-year-old man with depression tells you in GP that he has made a specific plan to hang himself later that day. He has written a suicide note and l...

Question

A 26-year-old man with depression tells you in GP that he has made a specific plan to hang himself later that day. He has written a suicide note and lives alone. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Arrange immediate urgent psychiatric assessment, ensuring he is not left alone

Answer

Book a routine psychiatry referral and advise him to call if he feels worse

Answer

Give him an SSRI prescription and book review in 2 weeks

Answer

Advise him to talk to friends and family and return if needed

Answer

Document his plan but take no action if he denies intent

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Acute suicide risk

A 26-year-old man with depression tells you in GP that he has made a specific plan to hang himself later that day. He has written a suicide note and lives alone. What is the most appropriate next step?