Title: Preventing Inmate Suicide: The Ultimate Patient Safety Measure
Headings: Preventing Inmate Suicide: The Ultimate Patient Safety Measure
Preventing Inmate Suicide: The Ultimate Patient Safety Measure
Start with Screening
Screening is Only the Beginning
Making the Most of a Bad Outcome

Content: Third, the review, separate and apart from other formal investigations that may be required to determine the cause of death, should include a critical inquiry of: The circumstances surrounding the incident
Facility procedures relevant to the incident
All relevant training received by involved staff
Pertinent medical and mental health services/reports involving the decedent
Possible precipitating factors (i.e., circumstances which may have caused the suicide or serious suicide attempt)
Recommendations, if any, for changes in policy, training, physical plant, medical or mental health services, and operational procedures
Suicide is a potential patient safety issue throughout the incarceration period. By being ever mindful of this possibility, we may have opportunity to prevent patient self-injury and death. Organizational culture and systems can support these efforts. How do you prevent suicide in your setting? Share your experience in the comments section of this post.