What is the main focus of Protocol 25?

The main focus of Protocol 25 is psychiatric assessment and intervention. This protocol addresses incidents where individuals may be experiencing mental health crises, including situations such as suicidal ideation, severe anxiety, or other psychiatric emergencies. The emphasis is on evaluating the patient's mental state, ensuring their safety, and providing appropriate interventions or support during the emergency.

This is particularly crucial because psychiatric emergencies can require a different approach than physical health emergencies. The dispatcher needs to ask specific questions to assess the risk to the individual and others, and gather information that can assist responders in providing the necessary care on scene. The structure of Protocol 25 is designed to guide the dispatcher in recognizing signs of mental health crises and in facilitating an appropriate, compassionate response, which is vital for effective emergency management in these situations.