What action should be taken if a patient shows signs of a suicide threat?

When a patient shows signs of a suicide threat, the most appropriate action is to ensure immediate safety by signaling a team member to call 911. This reflects the critical importance of responding promptly and appropriately to a situation that poses an immediate risk to a person’s life.

Calling 911 activates emergency services, which can provide the necessary support and intervention for the patient. Trained professionals can assess the situation and take further action to support the patient, such as providing on-site assistance or transporting them to a facility where they can receive the care they need.

Other responses do not address the urgency of the situation. Encouraging the patient to hang up would leave them unsafe and isolated, while discussing it later with a supervisor would delay necessary intervention. Dismissing the situation as a misunderstanding could lead to dire consequences, as it overlooks the seriousness of a potential suicide threat. Immediate action is crucial in such circumstances to protect the well-being of the individual involved.