Question

When assessing a patient with a behavioral crisis, your primary concern must be:

A) allowing the patient to express himself or herself to you in his or her own words.
B) setting your personal feelings aside and providing needed care.
C) gathering the patient's belongings and taking them to the hospital.
D) whether the patient will cause harm to you or your partner.

Answer 1

The primary concern when assessing a patient with a behavioral crisis is to ensure safety regarding the potential harm to healthcare providers or the patient. Checking for orientation and psychological safety are important aspects of the assessment.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing a patient with a behavioral crisis, the primary concern must be whether the patient will cause harm to you or your partner. This is to ensure the safety of healthcare providers and the patient themselves. Assessing for orientation, such as awareness of time, place and personal identity, is crucial in the initial evaluation of a patient's neurological function, helping to determine if the patient is aware and capable of interaction. Moreover, ensuring psychological safety is also important in managing the crisis effectively.