Noting that non-psychiatric patients are committing suicide in EDs and med/surg units, a new Joint Commission Sentinel Event Alert urges greater attention to risk of suicide and educating caregivers about warning signs, according to a Joint Commission release.
The Sentinel Event Alert newsletter suggests a series of specific steps, including:
1. Educate staff about suicide risks factors such as family history of suicide, anxiety and use of antidepressants, signs of imminent action and changes in behaviors or routines.
2. Encourage staff to call a mental health professional or resource person when necessary.
3. Empower staff to take action, such as placing a patient under constant observation.
Read the Joint Commission release on sentinel events.
Read more coverage on sentinel events:
- AllMed Introduces PeerScore for External Medical Peer Review for Hospitals and Surgery Centers
- Joint Commission Issues Alert Concerning Blood Thinners
The Sentinel Event Alert newsletter suggests a series of specific steps, including:
1. Educate staff about suicide risks factors such as family history of suicide, anxiety and use of antidepressants, signs of imminent action and changes in behaviors or routines.
2. Encourage staff to call a mental health professional or resource person when necessary.
3. Empower staff to take action, such as placing a patient under constant observation.
Read the Joint Commission release on sentinel events.
Read more coverage on sentinel events:
- AllMed Introduces PeerScore for External Medical Peer Review for Hospitals and Surgery Centers
- Joint Commission Issues Alert Concerning Blood Thinners