First responders and mental health intersection: what a case of suicide could teach us

Abstract

Mental health crises are especially difficult to identify and, depending upon the presentation of a crisis, emergency medical services may not be first on scene. Delayed care of these patients may result in negative outcomes including mortality. This article examines a case of a suicide attempt with a nail gun, preceded the previous day by a call reporting suicidal ideations; the attempt resulted in death after hospital care had been initiated. Additional mental health training for law enforcement is important for the safety and protection of mentally ill patients. The possibility of implementing an emergency response system that shares deidentified patient information by disclosing only chief complaints and concerning characteristics between first responders is explored. Minor changes to the first responder communication system could bridge a gap to better manage patient care and optimise outcomes.