A 46-year-old man with recurrent major depression tells his general practitioner that he intends to take all h…

Question

A 46-year-old man with recurrent major depression tells his general practitioner that he intends to take all his prescribed medicines after his partner leaves for work the following morning. He has collected the tablets, lives alone and says he has not told anyone because he does not want to be stopped. He is intoxicated with alcohol but has normal observations and refuses to agree to a voluntary admission. Which one of the following is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Arrange urgent psychiatric assessment in a supervised setting, with medication access removed and his partner contacted where appropriate.

Answer

Complete a written safety plan and review him in 48 hours.

Answer

Give an additional supply of antidepressant medication and ask him to telephone if his thoughts worsen.

Answer

Refer him routinely to a community psychologist and advise abstinence from alcohol.

Answer

Send him home with a relative after documenting that he denies wanting to die today.

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