Suicide Risk Management Policy

  • Purpose of Assignment:
    To demonstrate understanding of creating a therapeutic and safe environment for a suicidal client.

    Instructions:
    This assignment will use a word document to create a policy outline. Clearly identify sections of the policy based upon the listed expectations.

    Content:
    You are working on a newly opened observation unit in the hospital. Recently there has been an overflow of suicidal clients awaiting placement at the psychiatric facility. The staff recognizes there is not a fully developed policy on how to safely care for a suicidal client. Working together with case management and other staff nurses, you have been asked to create policy recommendations. Your recommendations should include:

    • How to create a safe environment
    • Considerations or actions needed when a client is admitted or discharged
    • Considerations or actions during the client’s admission (length of stay)
    • Identify allowable and restricted personal items for the client
    • Expectations of client monitoring
    • Describe the requirements of how the client is to be monitored, how often, and by whom.
    • Nursing Considerations
    • Expectations of nursing interactions when dealing with suicidal client
    • Required documentation expectations
    • Describe the roles of CNA, LPN, RN
  • Format:

    • Standard American English (correct grammar, punctuation, etc.)
    • Logical, original and insightful
    • Professional organization, style, and mechanics in APA format
    • Submit document through Grammarly to correct errors before submission.

Module 05 Content

  • Purpose of Assignment:
    To demonstrate understanding of creating a therapeutic and safe environment for a suicidal client.

    Instructions:
    This assignment will use a word document to create a policy outline. Clearly identify sections of the policy based upon the listed expectations.

    Content:
    You are working on a newly opened observation unit in the hospital. Recently there has been an overflow of suicidal clients awaiting placement at the psychiatric facility. The staff recognizes there is not a fully developed policy on how to safely care for a suicidal client. Working together with case management and other staff nurses, you have been asked to create policy recommendations. Your recommendations should include:

    • How to create a safe environment
    • Considerations or actions needed when a client is admitted or discharged
    • Considerations or actions during the client’s admission (length of stay)
    • Identify allowable and restricted personal items for the client
    • Expectations of client monitoring
    • Describe the requirements of how the client is to be monitored, how often, and by whom.
    • Nursing Considerations
    • Expectations of nursing interactions when dealing with suicidal client
    • Required documentation expectations
    • Describe the roles of CNA, LPN, RN
  • Format:

    • Standard American English (correct grammar, punctuation, etc.)
    • Logical, original and insightful
    • Professional organization, style, and mechanics in APA format
    • Submit document through Grammarly to correct errors before submission.

Suicide Risk Management Policy

Title: Suicide Risk Management Policy

I. Introduction A. Purpose of Policy This policy aims to provide guidelines and recommendations for creating a therapeutic and safe environment for suicidal clients in the newly opened observation unit of the hospital.

II. Creating a Safe Environment A. Physical Environment 1. Ensure a private, well-lit, and monitored room for the client. 2. Remove potential hazards and dangerous objects from the client’s reach. 3. Install surveillance cameras for continuous monitoring.

B. Staff Training and Awareness 1. Staff members must undergo regular training on suicide risk assessment and management. 2. Promote a culture of empathy and compassion among staff.

C. Communication 1. Implement a clear communication protocol among the care team. 2. Ensure immediate reporting of any concerning behavior or statements by the client.

III. Admissions and Discharge A. Admission Procedures 1. Conduct a comprehensive suicide risk assessment upon admission. 2. Collaborate with case management to determine appropriate placement.

B. Discharge Planning 1. Develop a personalized safety plan for each client. 2. Coordinate with psychiatric facilities for a seamless transition.

IV. During the Client’s Admission A. Length of Stay 1. Determine the length of stay based on the client’s assessment and needs. 2. Reevaluate the client’s condition regularly to adjust the treatment plan.

B. Personal Items 1. Allowable Items a. Limited to essential personal hygiene items. b. Items with no potential for self-harm or harm to others.

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2. Restricted Items
a. Remove belts, shoelaces, and sharp objects.
b. Prohibit any items that may pose a safety risk.

V. Client Monitoring A. Requirements 1. Continuous monitoring of the client by trained staff. 2. Frequent and documented check-ins at intervals no longer than 15 minutes.

B. Staff Assignments 1. Registered Nurse (RN) a. Responsible for overall care and assessment of the client. b. Administer medications and interventions as prescribed.

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2. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
a. Assist the RN in monitoring and documentation.
b. Administer medications under RN supervision.

3. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
a. Provide direct care and support to the client.
b. Assist with activities of daily living.

VI. Nursing Considerations A. Nursing Interactions 1. Establish a therapeutic nurse-client relationship. 2. Engage in active listening and empathetic communication. 3. Monitor for changes in behavior, mood, or suicidal ideation.

B. Documentation Expectations 1. Maintain thorough and timely documentation of all interactions and observations. 2. Document any changes in the client’s condition and interventions performed.

VII. Conclusion A. This policy outlines essential recommendations for the safe and therapeutic care of suicidal clients in the observation unit.

B. Regular review and updates of this policy are essential to ensure the highest level of safety and care for our clients.

Policy Author: [Your Name] Date: [Date] Review Date: [Review Date]

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