ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a case study of a 54-year-old man who is brought to the Emergency Department (ED) by ambulance. He had attempted to slit the left side of his throat with a knife. Self-harm and attempted suicide are distressing for all involved. A patient's mental capacity, willingness to participate in consultation and any pre-existing mental health history should be assessed, as this will govern further management. All patients should be managed with the same dignity and respect as non-self-harming patients. Their physical injury should be managed regardless of their willingness to participate in psychological assessment. Most Emergency Departments have mental health liaison teams available 24 hours who will provide assessments for patients presenting to the ED. For those that are discharged home after risk assessment, ensure they access to crisis lines via telephone and remind them that they can represent to the ED if they feel like they are not coping.
