Suicide physical examination

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Physical examination

• Physical examination should be focussed towards:
  • Vital signs
  • Level of consciousness and orientation
  • Manifestations of toxidromes
  • Signs of recent or remote suicide attempts
    • Scars from cutting
    • Bruises from hanging)
  • Signs of Physical or sexual abuse
    • Characteristic bruising patterns or genital trauma
  • Signs ofsubstance abuse
    • Track marks from intravenous drug use
    • Nosebleeds or perioral blisters from inhalant use
  • Signs of hperthyroidism