An intoxicated 18-year-old is mumbling obscenities. You note empty bottles of lithium and hydrocodone on the floor. He states I can't take it anymore. What should you do?

Get ready for the Paramedic Readiness Exam 5. Study with multiple-choice questions, detailed explanations, and effective strategies. Enhance your exam preparedness today!

Multiple Choice

An intoxicated 18-year-old is mumbling obscenities. You note empty bottles of lithium and hydrocodone on the floor. He states I can't take it anymore. What should you do?

Assessing suicide risk is the priority. When an intoxicated patient makes a statement like “I can’t take it anymore,” it signals possible suicidal ideation, but you need to know if there is a concrete plan and means. Directly asking about a suicide plan is the best next step because it reveals immediacy and danger level, guiding safety actions and transport decisions. If a plan or access to lethal means is present, you must implement safety measures, monitor closely, and arrange rapid transport for urgent evaluation. If no plan is identified, you continue supportive care while maintaining safety and preparing for appropriate follow-up.

Assessing suicide risk is the priority. When an intoxicated patient makes a statement like “I can’t take it anymore,” it signals possible suicidal ideation, but you need to know if there is a concrete plan and means. Directly asking about a suicide plan is the best next step because it reveals immediacy and danger level, guiding safety actions and transport decisions. If a plan or access to lethal means is present, you must implement safety measures, monitor closely, and arrange rapid transport for urgent evaluation. If no plan is identified, you continue supportive care while maintaining safety and preparing for appropriate follow-up.

More practice questions