The thing is, human nature dictates we assume the worst, but a warrant for your arrest can be issued for simply not responding to an Application to attach your earnings! He alludes to something more serious by saying 'you name it I've done it' but and I mean this with the up most respect for the patient, he has just slashed his wrists and may not be the most reliable source I guess. I suppose each situation is potentially unique and requires a judgment call at the time! Interestingly I had a similar conversation with a student midwife about a fictional patient who was continuing to have unprotected sex despite finding out she had a STD. The discussion revolving round patient confidentiality, patient duty of care and a duty of care to a wider community and in this case her partner. Most of the arguments for and against discussing it with/ alerting others were very similar.