Full Answer Section

Admission and Discharge:

• Admission:
  • Conduct a comprehensive suicide risk assessment using standardized tools.
  • Implement safety precautions based on the risk assessment (continuous observation, one-on-one monitoring).
  • Securely store medications and personal belongings.
  • Provide clear information about unit rules and expectations.
• Discharge:
  • Conduct a thorough discharge planning process involving the client, family, and mental health providers.
  • Ensure a safe discharge plan is in place (transportation, follow-up appointments, medication continuation).
  • Provide crisis hotline information and community resources.

Client’s Length of Stay:

• Continuous monitoring: Ensure constant observation by trained staff, minimizing blind spots.
• Activity monitoring: Supervise all activities, including showers, bathroom breaks, and medication administration.
• Limit access to personal items: Restrict potentially harmful items based on the risk assessment.
• Promote therapeutic interventions: Offer individual and group therapy sessions, access to relaxation techniques, and emotional support.

Allowable and Restricted Personal Items:

• Allowable: Clothing, toiletries, comfort items (stuffed animals, books), religious materials.
• Restricted: Sharp objects, medications (except prescribed), electronic devices (except for approved communication with family), flammable materials, cords, belts.

Client Monitoring:

• Frequency:
  • Continuous one-on-one monitoring for high-risk clients.
  • Frequent checks (every 15-30 minutes) for moderate-risk clients.
  • Less frequent checks (hourly) for low-risk clients with active coping strategies.
• Method:
  • Direct observation by trained staff (CNA, LPN, RN).
  • Utilize technology like video monitoring (with client consent).
  • Document all observations, interactions, and changes in behavior.

Nursing Considerations:

• Interactions:
  • Build rapport and trust through active listening and empathy.
  • Assess suicidal risk regularly and document changes.
  • Encourage expression of feelings and provide validation.
  • Offer coping skills and problem-solving strategies.
  • Avoid judgmental language and behavior.
• Documentation:
  • Document all assessments, interventions, observations, and client interactions.
  • Use standardized tools and clear, concise language.
  • Record changes in behavior and suicidal ideation.
  • Include details about safety precautions and monitoring frequency.

Staff Roles:

• CNA: Assist with basic needs, monitor behavior, report concerns to RN.
• LPN: Conduct basic assessments, administer medications, monitor vital signs, report to RN.
• RN: Conduct comprehensive assessments, manage care plans, implement safety protocols, delegate tasks, collaborate with physicians and mental health professionals.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with qualified healthcare professionals for specific recommendations regarding patient care.