Phase 1 Assessment: In crisis intervention, what is a primary focus during the assessment phase?

Phase 1 Assessment: In crisis intervention, what is a primary focus during the assessment phase?

• A. Determine if the client is a threat to self or others.
• B. Develop a safety plan.
• C. Implement therapeutic interventions.
• D. Evaluate crisis resolution.

Answer: (A)

The key goal in the assessment phase of crisis intervention is safety: determine whether the client is at risk of harming themselves or others. This risk assessment guides immediate actions to protect the client and others, such as ensuring supervision, removing means of harm, and deciding if urgent or higher-level care is needed. While developing a safety plan and starting therapeutic measures are important, they come after the initial risk is identified and safety is secured. Evaluating crisis resolution is a later step to assess outcomes and plan follow-up.

The key goal in the assessment phase of crisis intervention is safety: determine whether the client is at risk of harming themselves or others. This risk assessment guides immediate actions to protect the client and others, such as ensuring supervision, removing means of harm, and deciding if urgent or higher-level care is needed. While developing a safety plan and starting therapeutic measures are important, they come after the initial risk is identified and safety is secured. Evaluating crisis resolution is a later step to assess outcomes and plan follow-up.