Suicide Risk Assessment: Reducing Liability and Improving Outcomes-Handout: Slides

Handout: Slides

Pdf Summary

The document is a presentation on suicide risk assessment, liability reduction, and improving outcomes by Dr. Debra A. Pinals from the University of Michigan Medical School. The presentation is hosted by the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC).<br /><br />Suicide is a significant public health issue, with over 47,000 deaths and 1.4 million attempted suicides reported in 2019. The presentation discusses the relationship between mental illness, firearms, and suicide. It highlights that firearms are commonly used in suicide, especially among individuals with mental illness who own guns. Risk factors for suicide include psychiatric illnesses like depression and substance use disorders, as well as psychosocial factors like lack of social support and unemployment.<br /><br />The presentation addresses malpractice liability and the components of negligence, such as duty, dereliction of duty, direct causation, and damages. It emphasizes the importance of clear documentation, informed consent, and good malpractice coverage to reduce the risk of lawsuits. The presentation also provides information on risk assessment methods, including psychiatric evaluations and the use of screening questions to assess suicidal thoughts, plans, and previous attempts.<br /><br />Risk mitigation strategies are discussed, such as addressing access to lethal means, treating underlying conditions, enhancing support networks, and coordinating treatment among providers. Protective factors that can help prevent suicide include effective clinical care, easy access to interventions and support, and strong family and community support.<br /><br />The presentation concludes with resources for further reading and information on how to claim Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits. The contact information for Dr. Debra A. Pinals and the Suicide Prevention Resource Center is provided for any questions or inquiries.

Keywords

suicide risk assessment

liability reduction

improving outcomes

Dr. Debra A. Pinals

University of Michigan Medical School

Suicide Prevention Resource Center

mental illness

firearms

risk factors

malpractice liability