Self-harm risk assessment

Expertise in assessing and managing self-harm risk... 

When assessing thoughts of self-harm or an actual self-harm attenpt, you must think about the risk factors for completed suicide (p321-322). There s no formula to calculate whether someone will kill themselves, but the more risk factors - and fewer protective factors - the more concerned you should be. 

Ensure she s been screened by the ED doctors for overt organic causes and undisclosed self-harm Focus on assessment and initial management, containing risks and alleviating distress (Table 21.21. 

Assess MSE, risks, physical health (self-harm, UDS, breathalyser)... 

Eveiyone presenting with self-harm or suicidal thoughts needs a full psychiatric assessment, no matter how low risk they seem. Whether self-harm functions as a suicide attempt or not, any act increases the risk of suicide in the followii year. 

Assess the risk of further self-harm, including factors that affect ... 

Assess risk, including evidence of other self-harm... 

Assess for the safety of others and potential for violence. If accompanied by friends or family with whom the patient is living, ask them to remove from the home all guns, caustic chemicals, medications, and objects the person might use to harm self or others. Risk factors for suicide include severity of depression, feelings of hopelessness, comorbid personality disorder, and a history of a previous suicide attempt.19... 

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