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. 2021 Jan 24;9(1):28. doi: 10.3390/pharmacy9010028

Table A3.

Modified rubric for non-suicidal case.

Item Action Full Marks (2) Partial Marks (1) NO Marks (0)
1 Approaches the consumer appropriately
  • Introduces self

  • Greets consumer

2 Provides a comfortable setting for the consumer to talk
  • Negotiates privacy

  • Ensures the consumer is comfortable

3 Listens and communicates non-judgmentally
  • Does not blame the consumer

  • Does not use words like “alcoholic”, “druggie”

  • Non-judgmental attitudes displayed

4 Asks appropriate open-ended questions
  • E.g., “How can I help?”

  • E.g., “How long have you been feeling this way?”

  • E.g., “What type of support have you sought?”

  • E.g., “How are you coping?”

  • E.g., “Who have you spoken to about your emotions?”

5 Asks if the consumer is having suicidal thoughts
  • Asks directly (e.g., “Are you thinking of killing yourself/ending your life/suicide?”).

If the participant asks using indirect language, only, (e.g., harming/hurting yourself), then only give partial marks (1).
* Participant MUST assess for suicide risk to pass the case.
6 Gives reassurance and appropriate information
  • They care and want to help

  • Mental illness is common

  • Effective psychological/pharmacological treatment for mental illness exists

7 Displays empathy
  • Uses empathetic language (e.g., “I can see that this is a difficult time for you”)

  • Does not use sympathetic language (e.g., “I feel sorry for you”)

  • Demonstrates continual willingness to help

8 Takes appropriate action
  • Offers a range of professional services (e.g., GP, Beyondblue, Black Dog Institute, psychologist, psychiatrist)

  • Encourages discussing with family member/friend/partner

  • Takes phone number to call for follow-up

  • Provides pharmacy number for consumer to call back

9 Encourages self-help
  • Lifestyle recommendations (e.g., exercise, eating well)

  • Relevant support groups (e.g., widowers, carers, divorcees, new mothers)

10 Good non-verbal communication
  • Open body language

  • Appropriate eye contact

  • Non-judgmental facial expressions

TOTAL (out of 20)