Incorporate training about patient suicide within residency programs. This training can include:
Nuanced discussions about suicide prediction/prevention, the evidence around suicide prevention, and philosophical/ethical considerations Training about speaking with teams and patient families after a patient suicide Common emotional and behavioural reactions after a patient suicide Presentation from more senior psychiatric staff with past experience of losing a patient to suicide
Consider developing consistent protocols and procedures for postvention procedures after patient suicide
Consider separating team debriefs and formal incident reviews, with the former reserved for emotional support When incident reviews are conducted, employing neutral, non-judgmental and non-accusatory language to assess the case and extract learning points
Create an easily accessible hospital-specific document that provides instructions for psychiatrists after a patient suicide. This document can be divided into the following sections:
“Roles and responsibilities” – a section outlining tasks for the psychiatrist “What to expect” – a section outlining hospital procedures and review processes, including timelines “Who to contact” – a section collating suggested individuals or agencies that can be reached for support. Consider including the following points:
Recommend that psychiatrists reach out to trusted peers and mentors for support Contact information for a local medico-legal advisory body Contact information for dedicated wellness or physician support contacts within or outside of the specific hospital Contact information for the appropriate person to contact if needing time-off
Consider 3-, 6- and 12-month “check-ins” by a manager to determine whether ongoing support or resources are needed
|
