The psychiatrist is asked to evaluate a pt with Bipolar disorder who is exhibiting threatening behavior while hospitalized on the cardiology unit for cardiac ischemia. The psychiatrist learns that the pt was recently incarcerated for assaulting a police officer and has a record of other arrests for disturbing the peace. During the interview the pt curses about an ex-gf who left him for another man, and states his intention to track the person down and "teach her a lesson she'll never forget." In most states, the psychiatrist has the legal responsibility to:
A inform the police that the pt poses a potential danger
B inform the pt's parole officer that the pt has violated conditions of his parole
C recommend hospital discharge b/c the pt could pose a threat to other pts
D warn the pt that the threatening statements have been recorded in the medical record and can be utilized as incriminating evidence in court
