Accreditation 2023 - Risk Assessment

Suicide Prevention by Cheryl Summers

Suicide is a global health concern.  Early recognition and intervention could prevent death.  A suicide risk assessment and clinical judgement may enable a clinician to intervene in a timely. Effective communication of elevated suicide risk between multidisciplinary team members, patients, their families and/or a substitute decision maker (SDM) is fundamental in the provision of quality healthcare.  

Pembroke Regional Hospital acknowledges that the therapeutic relationship between members of the healthcare team and the patient is the foundation for suicide risk assessment. Staff work closely with patients, families, physicians, mental health and addictions services, Indigenous and faith communities to assist patients through their health crisis.

Patients at risk are identified and screened for level of risk by using the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) for Triage Assessment. Asking the right questions to determine suicide risk helps optimize healthcare resources by directing people to the right level of care and interventions while addressing the immediate safety needs.  

Interventions and strategies to support suicide prevention at PRH include: 

• Complete the Personal Safety Care Plan in collaboration with the patient
• Complete the C-SSRS for AMH/ICU Shift Assessment form every shift and PRN
• Ensure a safe environment by removing items in the patient's room and personal belongings that pose a potential risk as per the Search of Patient Property Policy
• Use of patient room with camera monitoring
• Close and constant observation is initiated by either a physician or RN. Physician orders may only be discontinued by a physician. Interventions should be chosen with the philosophy of least restraint

• Restricted access passes
• The MRP/psychiatrist must assess the patient's suitability to remain as a voluntary patient or need for transfer to a Schedule 1 facility consistent with the legislation under the Mental Health Act
• Referrals to community resources to support the patient and their family/caregiver post discharge for healthy transitions

All assessments and interventions are documented in the patient record.  All clinical staff involved in the assessment of a patient are responsible for communicating significant findings and changes in risk level in a timely manner to other members of the interdisciplinary team.  Communication and documentation in the patient's health care record ensure patient safety and quality health care. Click for the Quick Tip here.

To learn more, review the “Suicide Risk Assessment Policy”. For more information on the C-CRSS contact clinical education or the resource below: FREE Training for Individuals and Systems The Columbia Lighthouse Project