Risk Factors
What is the strongest predictor of future suicide attempts?
A previous suicide attempt.
Name one behavioral warning sign of suicide.
Giving away possessions or withdrawing from others.
What is an example of an open-ended question to ask about suicidal thoughts?
“Can you tell me more about how you’ve been feeling lately?”
What is the first step if a patient expresses suicidal thoughts?
Ensure their safety by staying with them and removing access to lethal means.
What is an example of an empathetic statement when a patient expresses feelings of hopelessness?
“It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed and hopeless right now. I’m here to listen.”
Name one mental health condition strongly associated with suicide risk.
Major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.
What might a person say that indicates suicidal ideation?
“I wish I were dead,” or “Everyone would be better off without me.”
What is a direct but nonjudgmental question to ask about suicide?
“Are you thinking about killing yourself?”
What is a safety plan?
A personalized plan that includes coping strategies, contacts for support, and steps to take during a crisis.
How should a nurse respond if a patient says, “I feel like a burden to my family”?
“It sounds like you’re feeling like a burden. Can you tell me more about why you feel this way?”
How does substance abuse increase suicide risk?
It impairs judgment, increases impulsivity, and may exacerbate underlying mental health conditions.
What mood-related changes may indicate suicide risk?
Depression, hopelessness, or sudden unexplained mood improvement.
Why is it important to ask about a specific plan for suicide?
It helps assess the level of risk and immediacy.
Why is involving family or close friends important in a suicide intervention?
They provide emotional support and can help monitor the patient.
What therapeutic communication technique involves repeating or paraphrasing the patient’s words to show understanding?
Reflection
What age range from adolescence to young adulthood is at greater risk for suicide
14 to 24 years of age
What does it mean if a patient starts creating a will or saying goodbye to loved ones?
It could be a sign of suicidal planning or preparation.
Name a follow-up question to ask if someone says they are thinking about suicide.
“Do you have a plan for how you would do it?”
What therapeutic communication technique is key during a suicide intervention?
Empathy and active listening.
When a patient expresses frustration about their treatment, what is a therapeutic response to validate their feelings?
“I hear you saying you’re feeling frustrated. Let’s talk about what’s been challenging for you.”
Name three environmental factors that may increase suicide risk.
Access to firearms, recent loss (job, relationship), or lack of access to mental health care.
Why is increased agitation or irritability a significant warning sign?
It may indicate a heightened emotional state leading to impulsive actions.
What should you assess if the patient has a plan?
The lethality, means, and immediacy of the plan.
Why is it important to follow up with a patient after a suicide attempt?
To ensure continued support and reduce the risk of future attempts.
What therapeutic response can be used to explore a patient’s suicidal thoughts without being judgmental?
“It sounds like you’ve been struggling a lot lately. Have you had any thoughts about wanting to end your life?”