When dispatched to a patient threatening self-harm, what is your first action?

In situations involving a patient threatening self-harm, the safety of both the patient and the responders is the top priority. Waiting for police officers to arrive ensures that the scene is secure before approaching the individual. Law enforcement is trained to handle potentially volatile situations, which can prevent escalation and protect everyone involved. This cautious approach minimizes risk and promotes a safer environment for both the responders and the patient, as officers can assess the scene for any immediate dangers before first responders offer medical assistance or attempt to engage the patient.

In contrast, trying to talk calmly to the patient could lead to further escalation if the situation is not secure, while distracting the patient to facilitate restraint could provoke a negative reaction from the individual, potentially resulting in harm. Explaining to the patient what you are doing may not be effective until the situation is stabilized, and the police presence can help ensure that the responders can interact with the patient safely.