AAS Lethal Means Restriction 5

Question 1

Which US state was among the first to pass an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law, sometimes called a red flag law?

Accepted Answer

Connecticut

Answer

Connecticut enacted one of the first ERPO laws in 1999, which has since been associated with reductions in firearm suicide rates in that state.

Question 2

When training healthcare providers in lethal means counseling, what does the CALM (Counseling on Access to Lethal Means) curriculum emphasize?

Accepted Answer

Practicing specific language for asking about and addressing firearm access during risk assessment

Answer

The CALM curriculum trains providers to use specific, non-judgmental language when asking about firearm access and counseling on safe storage.

Question 3

In means restriction counseling, what does 'means safety' emphasize compared to 'means removal'?

Accepted Answer

Means safety addresses secure storage as an option, not just complete removal

Answer

Means safety is a broader concept that includes secure storage (e.g., gun safes, trigger locks) as an alternative to complete removal, which may be more acceptable to some patients.

Question 4

What does research indicate about the effectiveness of means restriction for individuals with a history of a previous suicide attempt?

Accepted Answer

Means restriction remains effective because most re-attempts also occur impulsively

Answer

Even among those with prior attempts, crises and re-attempts often occur impulsively, so reducing access to lethal means still provides a protective buffer.

Question 5

A healthcare provider asks a patient in crisis if there are firearms at home, and the patient denies it but later an attempt occurs with a firearm. What does this scenario highlight about lethal means assessment?

Accepted Answer

Self-report of firearm access may be unreliable, underscoring the importance of collateral sources

Answer

Patients in crisis may underreport or deny firearm access, highlighting the value of collateral information from family members or other sources when possible.

(AAS) American Association of Suicidology Certification Practice Test

(AAS) American Association of Suicidology Certification Practice Test

AAS Lethal Means Restriction 5