Suicidal Thoughts/Behaviors

Question 1

what is the most critical aspects of interviewing a pt. who is suicidal

Answer 1

assessment

Question 2

no single risk factor explains suicide t or f

Answer 2

true

Question 3

acute risk of suicide is associated with what

Answer 3

anxiety
insomnia
substance abuse

Question 4

what are some risk fxr r/t suicide

Answer 4

impulsive/aggressive
hopeless/pessimistic
substance abuse/alcoholism
physical or sexual child abuse
head injury/neurological disorder
cigarette smoking

Question 5

if someone is expressing suicidal thoughts it is critical to know

Answer 5

what their plan is

what is the level of risk/how lethal/availability

Question 6

if a person expresses suicidal thoughts many times it does not mean they are seeking attention t or f

Answer 6

true - every verbal threat must be taken seriously - pt is in significant pain and must be helped

Question 7

those taking care of clients who express suicidal thoughts needs this

Answer 7

a way to express their emotions in a healthy way that will not be judged/create healthy environment

Question 8

during an assessment look for these cues

Answer 8

verbal - read between the line
behavioral - give away prized possessions/personal affairs in order/insomnia(1+nights)/sudden improvement in mood
determine level of risk**

Question 9

Red flags to look out for in suicide risk

Answer 9

mood changes from sad to happy/peaceful

gives away possessions

Question 10

which scale is used for suicide

Answer 10

SAD PERSONS
Sex
Age
Depression
Previous Attempts
Etho (alcohol) or Drug use
Rational thinking loss
Social Supports lacking
Organized plan
No spouse/single male
Sickness

Question 11

SAD PERSONS criteria

Answer 11

1 point for each positive item

Question 12

SAD PERSONS guideline for action

Answer 12

0-2 = send home f/u
3-4 = Closely f/u; consider hospitalization
5-6 = Strongly consider hospitalization
7-10 = Hospitalize/Commit

Question 13

Interventions during crises period

Answer 13

safe environment
doc. activity q15 min
construct verbal/written no-suicide contract
encourage communication
place on suicide precaution/observation

Question 14

interventions after crises period

Answer 14

arrange for support
remove dangerous items
prescribe medications 1-3 day supply only**

Question 15

communication guidelines for suicide to pt

Answer 15

crises temporary
pain can be survived
help is available
your not alone