Core EM - Emergency Medicine Podcast

Episode 28.0 – Suicide Assessment

Jan 4, 2016
The discussion highlights the urgency of suicide assessments in emergency departments. Statistics reveal alarming suicide attempt trends, emphasizing the need for skilled evaluations. Key elements such as demographic influences and effective questioning techniques are explored. Special attention is given to risk factors like access to means and previous attempts, which are crucial for understanding a patient's state. The podcast also underscores the importance of thorough assessments for patient safety and the necessity of psychiatric support and resources.
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INSIGHT

Suicide Statistics and ED Impact

  • About 650,000 suicide attempt patients visit EDs annually with a 1 in 30 death rate among attempters.
  • Suicide ranks high in causes of death globally, especially in adolescents, emphasizing ED's critical role.
ADVICE

Keep Suicide Tools Handy

  • Don't memorize suicide assessment tools; keep them accessible on your smartphone.
  • Quickly reference these tools when needed for efficient evaluation.
ADVICE

3 Essential Suicide Questions

  • Ask three key questions to assess suicidality: wishes about death, actual suicidal thoughts, and any preparatory actions.
  • Always inquire about access to lethal means, especially firearms, to assess risk.
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