Should suicide precautions be put in place for either patient?
Activity Questions
Review the scenarios and answer the below questions utilizing the attached material and resources.
Name some of the suicidal risk factors for the individuals:
Are either patient actively exhibiting any suicidal behaviors? If so, explain.
What assessment items are you able to answer based on the information you have already been provided?
What are some assessment questions you may want to ask this individual to obtain more information?
What level of risk would you consider these individuals to be? Should suicide precautions be put in place for either patient? If so, what precautions would you implement?
Table 27-2
Levels of Suicidal Behaviors
| Suicidal ideation | Expressed thoughts or fantasies with no definite intent—may express ideas directly or symbolically |
| Suicidal threats | Verbal or written expressions of intent without actual actions |
| Suicidal gestures | Actions that result in little or no injury, but communicate the message of suicidal intent |
| Parasuicidal behaviors | Unsuccessful attempts with a low likelihood of success |
| Suicidal attempts | Serious self-directed actions with the intent to end one’s life |
| Completed suicide | The successful ending of one’s life |
Box 27-3
Assessment the Potential for Suicide
“What has been the most difficult moment for you in the recent past?”
“Have things been so bad that you have thought about escaping? If so, how?”
“Are there times when death seems like an attractive option to you?”
“Have you thought of harming or killing yourself?”
“If you were to harm yourself, how would you do it?”
“Do you have access to the items you would need to carry out your plan? (This includes a gun, medications, a rope, an enclosed garage.)”
“Have you thought about or attempted to harm yourself in the past?”
“What has kept you from harming yourself thus far?”
“What might keep you from harming yourself in the future?”
“Do you think you can control your behavior and refrain from acting on your thoughts or impulses?” This is the most important question to ask.
