Certain individuals might enter a healthcare facility because they are at high risk of committing suicide. Other men and women come to the healthcare facility for another reason and then develop suicidal thoughts. Regardless of which comes first, healthcare workers must always be on the lookout for warning signs, and take steps to prevent the person from succeeding in their goal.
Any person who shows signs of helplessness, experiences extreme mood swings, or has undergone a traumatic event recently should be evaluated. This evaluation determines the patient’s mental state and whether they have had similar thoughts in the past. Previous suicide attempts need to be reported, and staff members need to learn if this person has access to lethal means.
Table of Contents
Safety First
Safety must be the top priority in healthcare settings. The facility has to remove any potential hazards and put strict measures in place regarding the storage and administration of drugs. Every staff member needs to undergo training in active listening, crisis intervention, and effective communication. In addition, the facility needs to make purchases with patient safety in mind, investing in items such as an anti suicide chair or molded beds.
Care Coordination
Healthcare professionals must come together with patients and their families when suicide is a concern. The healthcare team needs to include doctors, nurses, mental health professionals, and social workers. When all parties work together, a comprehensive treatment plan can be developed to address the patient’s needs. This plan should also include education and support for family members and other loved ones of the patient, as the patient will need their support.
Therapy
Evidence-based therapy is an important part of any suicide prevention plan. Many therapists today use dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as research shows they are effective in helping suicidal patients build coping skills and handle their mental health conditions. The medical team might also recommend medications for symptom management.
Continuity of Care
Men and women who are contemplating suicide need stability when it comes to their care team. Any upheaval in this team can set them back in their progress. Before discharging the patient, the medical team should have professionals in place to provide outpatient services. They also need to help the patient find support groups and community-based resources. Completing these steps should be part of a comprehensive aftercare plan designed to address the patient’s challenges. This plan also needs to include information on follow-up visits, medications, and where to seek help in an emergency.
Staff Education
Every staff member who might come into contact with a suicidal patient ought to undergo training in suicide prevention efforts. This training needs to be ongoing and cover topics like risk assessment, ethical considerations, and cultural competency. Furthermore, staff members should be trained to recognize when they are at risk of burnout and how to protect their mental health.
Increased Awareness
Many people still believe there is a stigma around receiving mental health treatment. Medical professionals must continue promoting awareness of the benefits of this treatment. A healthcare facility might launch a campaign or host a seminar to educate the community about mental health and suicide. When there is an environment of acceptance and understanding, men and women at risk of suicide are more willing to ask for help.
To prevent suicides, healthcare facilities must use a multifaceted approach. Identifying risk factors is the first step so action can be taken. Suicide prevention must be a priority today for healthcare facilities, as they are best equipped to support suicidal individuals and save their lives.
