Psychiatric Inpatient Suicide: Assessment Strategies
Abstract
Professional Progress Notes Psychiatric Inpatient Suicide: Assessment Strategies Carolyn V. Billings, RN, CS, MSN Professional Progress Notes reports innova- tions, ideas, and insights relevant to the advancement of psychiatric nursing. Read- ers are encouraged to contribute their ob- servations about front line issues, new ap- proaches to care, and other related matters for inclusion in this regular feature. The identification of an immediate risk of suicide is one of the most frequent reasons for admission to an inpatient psychiatric unit. Hospitaliza- tion is designed to provide a safe haven where suicide is less likely to occur than in the patient's usual setting. The inpa- tient setting offers a variety of treatment options to assist the patient in reducing an experience of intense and pervasive personal pain. Treatment may include the presence of a therapeutic milieu; the use of individual, group, or family inter- ventions; or the careful management of medication to stabilize the patient's mood, thinking, and behavior. The hos- pital environment is structured to pro- vide safety and support. The knowl- edge, skills, and abilities of the psychi- atric nursing staff are vital links inaccomplishing the lifesaving goals of suicide treatment. Nursing has designated the nursing diagnosis