IMPROVING SUICIDE RISK ASSESSMENT IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

This educational module addressed 2 important issues related to the assessment, interventions, and appropriate disposition of patients who are at risk for suicide. The new JCAHO National Patient Safety Goal requires that patients being treated for emotional or behavioral disorders in general hospitals have a documented suicide-risk assessment completed. This project used research methods for the evaluation phase of the performance improvement project and statistical analysis to measure levels of change in knowledge and behavior. The educational module demonstrated a significant difference in nurses' knowledge in identifying patients at risk for suicide and the optimal intervention for these patients. The cost/benefit of the program was positive, so there has been an administrative decision to implement the suicide prevention education and assessment tools in other hospital departments. The educational module has demonstrated promise in enhancing patient safety and decreasing risk to the patient and the hospital. © 2009 Emergency Nurses Association.