Danger To Self & Others

Question 1

What defines Low Risk in relation to danger to self and others?

Answer 1

Limited thoughts of harm to self/others, no plan or intent, few risk factors present

This level indicates minimal immediate danger.

Question 2

What are the risk factors associated with Moderate Risk?

Answer 2

Ideation with limited plans and no intent (or vice versa), some risk factors present

This indicates a need for monitoring and possible intervention.

Question 3

What interventions are recommended for High Risk individuals?

Answer 3

• Identify social supports
• Identify coping mechanisms
• Provide referrals for clinical contacts
• Reassess frequently

These interventions aim to mitigate immediate dangers and provide support.

Question 4

What additional interventions should be taken for Moderate Risk individuals?

Answer 4

• Explore alternatives to violence
• Remove lethal means to harm self/others
• Decrease isolation
• Explore the option of medication

These steps aim to lower the risk of harm.

Question 5

What risk factors indicate High Risk?

Answer 5

• Specific plan with intent
• Access to lethal means
• Many risk factors present
• Limited social support
• Impaired self control

High Risk indicates a significant danger to self or others.

Question 6

What is the recommended action if a High Risk client cannot engage in safety planning?

Answer 6

Hospitalization should occur.

This is crucial to ensure safety.

Question 7

True or False: A client at High Risk can be involuntarily hospitalized for potential violence if mentally ill.

Answer 7

True

This reflects legal and ethical responsibilities to protect individuals and others.

Question 8

What should be avoided for High Risk clients?

Answer 8

Client should not be left alone.

Continuous supervision is essential to prevent harm.

Question 9

Who is more likely to complete suicide, males or females?

Answer 9

Males are more likely to complete suicide than females.

Question 10

Which racial groups have the highest suicide rates?

Answer 10

White people, American Indians, and Alaska Natives have the highest suicide rates.

Question 11

Which racial groups have the lowest suicide rates?

Answer 11

Hispanics, African Americans, Asians, and Pacific Islanders have the lowest rates.

Question 12

What age group has a higher risk of suicide?

Answer 12

Older adults have a higher risk.

Question 13

Which demographic has the highest risk factor for suicide?

Answer 13

White men over the age of 85 have the highest risk factor.

Question 14

What history increases the risk of suicide?

Answer 14

History of mental illness increases the risk of suicide.

Question 15

How does substance abuse relate to suicide risk?

Answer 15

Substance abuse increases the risk of suicide.

Question 16

What factor significantly increases suicide risk related to past behavior?

Answer 16

Prior suicide attempts increase the risk.

Question 17

What family history factors are associated with increased suicide risk?

Answer 17

• Family history of mental illness or substance abuse
• Family history of suicide

Question 18

What type of family violence can increase suicide risk?

Answer 18

Family violence including physical or sexual abuse can increase suicide risk.

Question 19

How does access to firearms affect suicide risk?

Answer 19

Firearms/lethal means available and easy to access increase suicide risk.

Question 20

What psychological state is associated with higher suicide risk?

Answer 20

Hopelessness is associated with higher suicide risk.

Question 21

What is a risk factor for danger to others?

Answer 21

Prior history of violence

This indicates a pattern of aggressive behavior in the past.

Question 22

Which factor involves having a specific target in mind?

Answer 22

An identified victim/plan

This suggests premeditated intentions to harm someone.

Question 23

What mental health issue can increase the risk of danger to others?

Answer 23

History of mental illness

This includes conditions that may impair judgment or increase aggression.

Question 24

How can substance use affect risk factors for danger to others?

Answer 24

Substance abuse

This can lead to impaired judgment and increased impulsivity.

Question 25

Which symptoms are considered psychotic and may indicate increased risk?

Answer 25

Psychotic symptoms (command hallucinations, paranoid delusions) ## Footnote These symptoms can distort reality and provoke aggressive behavior.

Question 26

What past event may indicate a higher risk for future violence?

Answer 26

History of previous involuntary hospitalization ## Footnote This suggests severe mental health crises that required intervention.

Question 27

What social factor can contribute to the risk of danger to others?

Answer 27

Social isolation or limited support system ## Footnote Lack of social support can exacerbate mental health issues.

Question 28

What can increase the lethality of a potential violent incident?

Answer 28

Firearms/lethal means available and easy to access ## Footnote Access to weapons can significantly increase the risk of fatal outcomes.

Question 29

What should be assessed to determine lethality and danger to self or others?

Answer 29

Biopsychosocial assessment including: * Suicidal or homicidal thoughts * Psychological intent to inflict harm * Level of emotional distress * Recent behaviors * Nature of the situation * Existence of a plan ## Footnote Consider factors such as access to firearms and recent stressors.

Question 30

What factors should be considered in assessing risk?

Answer 30

Risk factors including: * History of suicide or violence * Recent external stressors (job, school, relationship changes) * Environmental supports and stressors * Medical needs and medications * Current substance use * Coping methods and resources ## Footnote External stressors may include trauma or victimization history.

Question 31

How can rapport be established with an individual in crisis?

Answer 31

Through a nonjudgmental attitude, respect, and reinforcing small gains and resiliency. ## Footnote A supportive approach is crucial for effective communication.

Question 32

What should be identified to understand the crisis?

Answer 32

Major problems and the precipitating event that turned into a crisis. ## Footnote Understanding the context of the crisis helps in formulating a response.

Question 33

What coping skills should be assessed in a client?

Answer 33

Assess current coping skills as adaptive or maladaptive. ## Footnote This includes evaluating the support system and willingness to use it.

Question 34

What techniques can encourage exploration of feelings and emotions?

Answer 34

Use of: * Active listening * Paraphrasing * Reflecting ## Footnote These techniques facilitate deeper emotional exploration.

Question 35

What should be explored as part of coping strategies?

Answer 35

Possible alternatives and positive coping skills ## Footnote Consideration of past helpful responses to crises

Question 36

What is the first step in formulating an action plan for a client at low to moderate risk for harm?

Answer 36

Explore alternatives to violence ## Footnote Includes identifying support systems and engaging significant others

Question 37

What should be included in an action plan for clients with limited social supports?

Answer 37

Identify and engage supports and/or significant others ## Footnote Aims to decrease isolation and provide support

Question 38

What are some coping mechanisms to implement for low to moderate risk clients?

Answer 38

Coping mechanisms ## Footnote Establish future linkage and provide clinical referrals

Question 39

What action should be taken if a client is at high risk for harm to self?

Answer 39

Hospitalization should occur if a specific suicidal plan and intention is in place ## Footnote Client should not be left alone and an ambulance should be called

Question 40

What factors indicate a client is at high risk for harm to self?

Answer 40

Specific plans and/or intent, impaired self-control, multiple risk factors present, limited social supports, hopelessness regarding future ## Footnote Includes severe mental illness/psychosis and access to means

Question 41

What should be done if a client is at high risk for violence towards others?

Answer 41

Call an ambulance or police for involuntary hospitalization ## Footnote Requires a DSM-5 diagnosis such as psychosis, depression, mania, or dementia

Question 42

What is the clinician's duty in case of potential violence?

Answer 42

Warn the intended victim and police ## Footnote Ensures safety of potential victims

Question 43

What aspects should be followed up with the client after a crisis?

Answer 43

Physical condition, cognitive understanding, overall functioning ## Footnote Includes how current stressors are being handled

Question 44

Fill in the blank: If a client has limited intensity and duration of suicidal thoughts, they are considered to be at _______ risk.

Answer 44

low to moderate

Question 45

True or False: A client with a specific suicidal plan and intent should be left alone.

Answer 45

False ## Footnote The client should not be left alone