Police have called for EMS assistance at the home of a 78-year-old woman. The patient's daughter called 911 after her mother stated that she didn't want to live anymore. The police officer tells you, I don't think she'd actually hurt herself, since she's almost 80 years old. Which of the following is an appropriate response to this statement?
A) You're right, she probably wouldn't. Let me see if she wants to sign a refusal of care form.
B) Actually, elderly patients have a high rate of depression and suicide.
C) I don't think she needs a hospital evaluation; the daughter can take her to her primary physician.
D) She may be being abused; you should question the daughter about it.
Question 2
You are on the scene of a male patient who threatened to take pills to end his life. In talking with the patient, he informs you that he just got a new job that requires more of his time and his wife has been giving him a hard time about it. Tonight, he had enough and just made the comment because he was mad at her. He says that although he is still upset, he doesn't plan to do anything drastic. Before taking further action, which one of the following facts about the patient should raise the EMT's suspicion that he is indeed at a higher risk for suicide?
A) New job with increased stress
B) Scar on the patient's neck
C) New diagnosis of high blood pressure
D) Unsuccessful attempt three years ago
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