USMLE Step 2 Quiz: Psychiatric Emergencies And Safety

What this quiz covers

This quiz focuses on Psychiatric Emergencies And Safety, giving you a quick way to practice the rules, question types, and explanations that matter most for USMLE Step 2.

How to use this quiz

Try each quiz question before looking at the correct answer. Use the explanations to review missed ideas, then come back to similar questions until the pattern feels familiar.

Question 1

1. Initiate emergency procedures for involuntary psychiatric hospitalization. (correct answer)
2. Develop a verbal safety plan with the patient and schedule a follow-up call for tomorrow.
3. Start a new antidepressant and schedule a follow-up appointment in one week.
4. Contact the patient's wife and ask her to remove the firearm from the home.

Explanation: This patient is expressing active suicidal ideation with a specific, lethal plan and intent, constituting a psychiatric emergency. The provider's primary responsibility is to ensure the patient's safety, which requires immediate hospitalization. Because the risk is imminent, an involuntary hold is necessary if the patient is unwilling to be admitted voluntarily. A verbal safety plan is insufficient for this level of acute risk. Starting a new medication is not an immediate intervention and will take weeks to become effective. While removing the firearm is important, it does not address the underlying acute suicidality, and the patient could find other means; hospitalization is the definitive safety measure.

Question 2

1. Initiate proceedings for an emergency involuntary psychiatric hold. (correct answer)
2. Discharge the patient with a referral to an intensive outpatient program.
3. Respect the patient's autonomy and discharge her against medical advice.
4. Prescribe a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and arrange for a family member to stay with her.

Explanation: The patient poses an imminent danger to herself, as evidenced by her recent serious attempt and her stated intent to try again upon release. When a patient with a mental illness is a danger to themselves or others and refuses voluntary treatment, an involuntary psychiatric hold (commitment) is necessary to ensure their safety. Discharging her, even with resources, would be unsafe. Her decision-making is impaired by her severe depression, so her refusal of treatment cannot be considered an autonomous choice. Outpatient management is insufficient for this level of acute risk.

Question 3

1. Active homicidal ideation with a specific target and plan. (correct answer)
2. A history of medication non-adherence.
3. The presence of persecutory delusions.
4. A past history of violence.

Explanation: While a past history of violence is the single best long-term predictor of future violence, the strongest predictor of imminent violence is active homicidal ideation with a specific plan and an identified victim. This patient's direct threat against his neighbor represents an immediate and serious risk. Medication non-adherence and persecutory delusions are risk factors that increase the overall likelihood of violence, but the specific, articulated threat is the most urgent concern.

Question 4

1. Lorazepam. (correct answer)
2. Haloperidol.
3. Propranolol.
4. Olanzapine.

Explanation: This patient's presentation (agitation, sympathomimetic signs including tachycardia, hypertension, mydriasis, and diaphoresis) is highly suggestive of stimulant intoxication (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines). Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam, are the first-line treatment for agitation and sympathomimetic toxicity. They reduce agitation, treat hypertension and tachycardia, and prevent seizures. Antipsychotics like haloperidol or olanzapine are second-line and should be used with caution as they can lower the seizure threshold and cause QTc prolongation. Propranolol is contraindicated in cocaine toxicity due to the risk of unopposed alpha-adrenergic stimulation, which can worsen hypertension.

Question 5

1. Grave disability. (correct answer)
2. Imminent danger to self.
3. Imminent danger to others.
4. Refusal of medical treatment.

Explanation: The criteria for involuntary commitment are typically danger to self, danger to others, or grave disability. This patient, due to her manic episode, is unable to provide for her basic needs (food, shelter, safety), which is the definition of grave disability. While wandering in traffic is dangerous, the core issue is her inability to care for herself due to mental illness, not a specific intent to self-harm. She is not expressing threats towards others. Refusal of treatment is not a criterion in itself for commitment, but rather a consequence of the underlying condition that meets one of the three main criteria.

Question 6

1. Serotonin syndrome. (correct answer)
2. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
3. Malignant hyperthermia.
4. Anticholinergic toxicity.

Explanation: This patient presents with the classic triad of serotonin syndrome: autonomic dysfunction (hyperthermia, diaphoresis), altered mental status (confusion, agitation), and neuromuscular hyperactivity (clonus, hyperreflexia). This was likely precipitated by the combination of an SSRI (sertraline) and linezolid, which has MAOI properties. NMS is caused by dopamine antagonists and features lead-pipe rigidity. Malignant hyperthermia is related to anesthetics. Anticholinergic toxicity presents with dry skin and mucous membranes, not diaphoresis.

Question 7

1. Administer an intravenous lorazepam challenge. (correct answer)
2. Initiate a high-potency antipsychotic such as haloperidol.
3. Obtain an urgent electroencephalogram (EEG).
4. Proceed directly to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Explanation: This patient's presentation with mutism, immobility, posturing, and waxy flexibility is classic for catatonia. The lorazepam challenge is a key step in management; a rapid (within 5-10 minutes) and significant improvement in catatonic symptoms after an IV dose of lorazepam (1-2 mg) confirms the diagnosis and is also therapeutic. High-potency antipsychotics can worsen catatonia and may precipitate NMS. An EEG is useful to rule out nonconvulsive status epilepticus, but the lorazepam challenge is the more specific first step. ECT is a highly effective treatment for catatonia, especially malignant catatonia or cases refractory to benzodiazepines, but it is not the initial intervention.

Question 8

1. A fluctuating course of symptoms. (correct answer)
2. The presence of visual hallucinations.
3. The acute onset of the symptoms.
4. The absence of a prior psychiatric history.

Explanation: The hallmark of delirium is a disturbance in attention and awareness that develops over a short period and tends to fluctuate in severity during the course of the day. While acute onset, visual hallucinations, and lack of prior psychiatric history are all suggestive of delirium, the fluctuating course is the most specific and classic feature that distinguishes it from most primary psychotic disorders, which tend to have a more consistent presentation throughout the day.

Question 9

1. Voluntary admission to an inpatient psychiatric unit. (correct answer)
2. Discharge with a family member and an urgent outpatient psychiatry referral.
3. A 23-hour observation stay in the emergency department with crisis intervention.
4. Involuntary commitment for being a danger to self.

Explanation: This patient has active suicidal ideation with a method, and he explicitly states that he feels unsafe. This meets the criteria for inpatient hospitalization to ensure his safety and initiate treatment. Since he is willing to accept help, voluntary admission is the appropriate and least restrictive option. Discharging him would be unsafe, given his stated fear of acting on his thoughts. Observation in the ED is not a substitute for specialized inpatient psychiatric care. Involuntary commitment is not necessary as he is willing to be admitted voluntarily.

Question 10

1. Willingness to engage in treatment and a future orientation. (correct answer)
2. The fact that the previous attempt was unsuccessful.
3. The presence of a strong family support system.
4. Being in a supervised hospital environment.

Explanation: Protective factors can buffer individuals from suicidal behavior. While family support and a safe environment are important, the strongest protective factors are internal to the patient. His expression of remorse, future orientation ("never get to that place again"), and willingness to engage in treatment indicate a shift in his mental state and a capacity to form a therapeutic alliance, which significantly lowers his imminent risk. A previous attempt, even if unsuccessful, is a strong risk factor for future suicide, not a protective one.

Question 11

1. Alprazolam. (correct answer)
2. Sertraline.
3. Buspirone.
4. Propranolol.

Explanation: This patient's presentation of a seizure, autonomic hyperactivity (tachycardia, hypertension), tremor, and agitation is a medical emergency characteristic of abrupt withdrawal from a CNS depressant. Short-acting benzodiazepines, like alprazolam, are commonly prescribed for anxiety and carry a high risk of a severe withdrawal syndrome, including seizures. Withdrawal from SSRIs like sertraline can cause a discontinuation syndrome (flu-like symptoms, dizziness) but not seizures. Buspirone and propranolol withdrawal do not typically cause seizures.

Question 12

1. Low-dose haloperidol. (correct answer)
2. Lorazepam.
3. Diphenhydramine.
4. Trazodone.

Explanation: This patient is experiencing delirium, likely secondary to his recent surgery, hospitalization, and potential underlying medical issues. The first-line management of delirium is to identify and treat the underlying cause. For severe agitation that poses a risk to the patient or staff, low-dose antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol, risperidone, olanzapine) are the preferred pharmacologic treatment. Benzodiazepines like lorazepam can worsen confusion and increase the risk of paradoxical agitation in the elderly. Diphenhydramine has strong anticholinergic properties that will exacerbate delirium. Trazodone is a sedative but is not typically used for acute agitation in delirium.

Question 13

1. An intravenous benzodiazepine. (correct answer)
2. An intravenous antipsychotic.
3. An intravenous alpha-2 agonist.
4. An intravenous beta-blocker.

Explanation: This patient is exhibiting signs and symptoms of delirium tremens (DTs), a severe form of alcohol withdrawal. The cornerstone of treatment for alcohol withdrawal and DTs is a benzodiazepine (e.g., lorazepam, diazepam, chlordiazepoxide), which potentiates GABAergic inhibition to counteract the glutamatergic hyperactivity of withdrawal. IV administration is often preferred in severe cases. Antipsychotics like haloperidol can be used for hallucinations but do not treat the underlying withdrawal and can lower the seizure threshold. Alpha-2 agonists (clonidine) and beta-blockers can help control autonomic symptoms but do not prevent seizures or delirium and are not first-line therapy.

Question 14

1. Continuous one-to-one monitoring by a staff member. (correct answer)
2. A psychiatric consultation within 24 hours.
3. Consent from the patient's next of kin.
4. A court order authorizing the intervention.

Explanation: The use of physical restraints is a high-risk intervention that requires strict safety protocols. One of the most critical requirements is continuous, in-person, one-to-one monitoring to assess for patient safety, comfort, and readiness for restraint removal. This is mandated to prevent injury, aspiration, or other complications. While a physician order is required (typically within one hour) and regular reassessment is necessary, continuous monitoring is the key procedural safeguard during the restraint episode. A psychiatric consult is appropriate but not the immediate requirement for continuing the restraints. Consent is not required in an emergency, and a court order is not needed for emergency restraint use.

Question 15

1. Initiating intravenous fluids and supportive care. (correct answer)
2. Administering benztropine.
3. Starting a different antipsychotic immediately.
4. Obtaining an MRI of the brain.

Explanation: This patient's presentation is classic for neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a life-threatening reaction to dopamine antagonists. The first step is to stop the offending agent. The immediate next priority is aggressive supportive care, including IV fluids for hydration to prevent renal failure from rhabdomyolysis (indicated by the high CK), and cooling measures. Specific treatments like dantrolene or bromocriptine may be considered, but supportive care is paramount. Benztropine is used for dystonia, not NMS. Starting another antipsychotic would worsen the condition. Brain imaging is not the primary intervention.

Question 16

1. Increase the frequency of outpatient follow-up and coordinate with her therapist. (correct answer)
2. Arrange for immediate admission to an inpatient psychiatric facility.
3. Dismiss her comments as a normal part of the grieving process.
4. Call 911 to have her transported to the emergency department for evaluation.

Explanation: This patient is expressing passive suicidal ideation without a specific plan or intent. She also has strong protective factors, including religious beliefs against suicide and good social support. This level of risk does not typically require inpatient hospitalization. The most appropriate management is to increase the level of outpatient support, such as more frequent visits, ensuring she is engaged in therapy, and developing a safety plan. Dismissing her comments is inappropriate as all suicidal ideation must be taken seriously. An ED visit is not necessary given the lack of acute, high-risk features.

Question 17

1. Haloperidol. (correct answer)
2. Lorazepam.
3. Olanzapine.
4. Risperidone.

Explanation: Many antipsychotics, particularly typical antipsychotics like haloperidol and some atypicals like ziprasidone, are known to prolong the QTc interval, which increases the risk of Torsades de pointes. Given this patient's known history of QTc prolongation, haloperidol carries the highest risk among the options and should be avoided. Olanzapine and risperidone have a lower risk of QTc prolongation than haloperidol. Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, does not affect the QTc interval and is a safe option for sedation, often used in combination with an antipsychotic.

Question 18

1. Warn the intended victim and notify law enforcement. (correct answer)
2. Maintain strict patient confidentiality.
3. Initiate involuntary commitment procedures immediately.
4. Prescribe an antipsychotic medication and schedule a close follow-up.

Explanation: This scenario represents a "Tarasoff" situation, where a patient has made a credible, specific threat of serious harm to an identifiable third party. In this case, the physician's "duty to protect" the potential victim overrides patient confidentiality. The physician must take reasonable steps to protect the intended victim, which typically involves notifying the potential victim and law enforcement. While involuntary commitment may also be necessary, the immediate duty is to warn and protect. Prescribing medication is not a sufficient response to an acute homicidal threat.

Question 19

1. Attempt verbal de-escalation techniques. (correct answer)
2. Administer intramuscular haloperidol and lorazepam.
3. Apply four-point physical restraints.
4. Obtain a urine toxicology screen and blood alcohol level.

Explanation: The initial management of an agitated patient should always begin with the least restrictive intervention possible. Verbal de-escalation, using a calm and non-confrontational approach, should be attempted first as long as the situation is safe for both the patient and staff. If this fails or the patient becomes physically aggressive, chemical or physical restraints may be necessary. Obtaining diagnostic tests is important for determining the underlying cause of agitation but is secondary to ensuring immediate safety.

Question 20

1. Request an urgent psychiatric consultation to formally assess his decision-making capacity. (correct answer)
2. Respect the patient's decision and provide wound care and antibiotics only.
3. Seek a court order to compel the surgery.
4. Initiate an SSRI and re-address the surgery in 4-6 weeks.

Explanation: While adults generally have the right to refuse medical treatment, this right depends on their having decision-making capacity. Capacity can be compromised by a psychiatric condition like severe depression. Because the patient's refusal is directly linked to depressive cognitions ("I deserve to die"), there is a strong reason to suspect he lacks capacity to make this specific decision. The most appropriate next step is to obtain a formal psychiatric consultation to assess capacity. Proceeding with a court order is premature without this assessment. Respecting the decision would be inappropriate if it is not capacitous. Waiting for an SSRI to work is not feasible given the urgent, life-threatening nature of the gangrene.