CRISIS INTERVENTION BASICS
What is the primary goal of crisis intervention?
To stabilize the individual and reduce immediate risk of harm.
Which substance class is most associated with overdose risk requiring naloxone?
Opioids.
What does SI stand for in crisis work?
Suicidal Ideation.
Name one verbal de-escalation technique.
Calm tone, reflective listening, validating feelings.
What ethical principle prioritizes doing no harm?
In documentation, policies, and trainings, “do no harm” or “duty of care” is often clearer, more defensible, and better understood than nonmaleficence—especially for interdisciplinary teams, peers, and clients.
one key difference between crisis intervention and long-term therapy.
Crisis intervention is short-term and focused on immediate safety and stabilization.
Name one common sign of alcohol withdrawal that requires medical attention.
Seizures,or delirium tremens, or severe tremors.
Name one symptom of acute psychosis.
Hallucinations, delusions, disorganized speech.
Why is physical space important during de-escalation?
It reduces perceived threat and escalation risk.
Why is cultural humility critical in crisis response?
It prevents misinterpretation of ethnicity/behavior and builds trust.
What is meant by “imminent risk”?
A high likelihood of immediate harm to self or others.
Why is intoxication a complicating factor in crisis assessment?
It can impair judgment, cognition, and reliability of self-report.
Why should staff avoid arguing with delusions during a crisis?
It escalates distress and damages rapport.
What is the FIRST step if a client becomes physically aggressive?
Ensure staff and client safety and follow agency safety protocols.
What should you do if a client refuses help but denies risk?
Document assessment, provide resources, and respect autonomy if no imminent risk.
Which model emphasizes emotional stabilization before problem-solving?
The Crisis Intervention Model (Roberts’ 7-Stage Model).
What is the priority when a client presents with polysubstance use and suicidal ideation?
Immediate safety and medical evaluation.
What is a protective factor that reduces suicide risk?
Social support, coping skills, responsibility to others.
What does “least restrictive intervention” mean?
Using the minimum level of intervention necessary to maintain safety.
What is mandated reporting in crisis work?
Legal obligation to report abuse, neglect, or imminent danger.
What documentation(at least 4) is critical following a crisis intervention encounter?
Risk assessment, interventions used, client response, and disposition/referrals.
What harm-reduction strategy can be introduced during a crisis intervention?
Naloxone education, safer use planning, or linkage to detox/MAT.
When is involuntary hospitalization typically considered?
When there is imminent risk and the individual lacks capacity to consent.
Why should staff avoid power struggles during a crisis?
Power struggles increase resistance and escalation.
How does trauma-informed care shape crisis intervention?
By emphasizing safety, choice, collaboration, trust, and empowerment.