A 45-year-old man with alcohol dependence presents after taking an overdose of tablets. He expresses hopelessness and says he wishes he were dead, but...

Question

A 45-year-old man with alcohol dependence presents after taking an overdose of tablets. He expresses hopelessness and says he wishes he were dead, but denies a specific plan. He lives alone, has few supports and has previously self-harmed. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Admit or refer for urgent psychiatric assessment and risk management

Answer

Discharge with written advice only

Answer

Arrange routine GP review in 2 weeks

Answer

Prescribe a large quantity of sedative medication

Answer

Tell him he is not serious as he has no plan

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Suicide risk assessment

A 45-year-old man with alcohol dependence presents after taking an overdose of tablets. He expresses hopelessness and says he wishes he were dead, but denies a specific plan. He lives alone, has few supports and has previously self-harmed. What is the most appropriate management?