A 16-year-old boy attends A&E after cutting his forearms superficially following an argument with his parents. He denies suicidal intent but admits to...

Question

A 16-year-old boy attends A&E after cutting his forearms superficially following an argument with his parents. He denies suicidal intent but admits to recurrent self-harm. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Provide wound care and arrange urgent mental health assessment

Answer

Discharge without further assessment

Answer

Call the police

Answer

Admit to a medical ward for 1 week

Answer

Start antidepressants immediately

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Self-harm – assessment

A 16-year-old boy attends A&E after cutting his forearms superficially following an argument with his parents. He denies suicidal intent but admits to recurrent self-harm. What is the most appropriate next step?