A caller has called in and stated they have a knife in their kitchen and pills in their hand and they are wanting to take the pills then slit their wrist. Which of the following would be the most appopriate step with the least invasive method?

Question

Asking the caller if they would like to go to the emergency room

Asking the caller if they would distance themselves from the knife and pills while you hear what has led them to this point

Calling emergency services

Calling mobile crisis

Answer 1

In this situation, the most appropriate step with the least invasive method would be:

Asking the caller if they would distance themselves from the knife and pills while you hear what has led them to this point.

This option allows you to create a dialogue with the caller, prioritize their safety by encouraging them to remove immediate means of self-harm, and potentially understand their feelings and situation better. It's important to show empathy and provide support without escalating the situation further. However, it's crucial to also consider involving emergency services or a mobile crisis team if the caller remains in crisis.