Your patient is a 24-year-old male who is severely depressed. He tells you that he can't "handle the pressure" anymore and that he wants to die. He is refusing transport. Which of the following is the most appropriate decision regarding this patient's care?
a. Transport the patient against his will with the assistance of law enforcement.
b. Contact the patient's family to find out what their wishes are.
c. Leave the scene and allow law enforcement to handle the situation.
d. Respect the patient's wishes; he is alert, oriented, and capable of giving consent.
Answer: a. Transport the patient against his will with the assistance of law enforcement.