Suicide reduction measures outlined

Published in the February issue of the British Journal of Psychiatry, the study set out to describe the social and clinical characteristics of a comprehensive national sample of psychiatric inpatients, and patients who had been discharged from hospital in the previous three months, who went on to commit suicide.

The cases consisted of deaths registered between 1996 and 2000. The study was carried out as part of the National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Homicide by People with Mental Illness.

The clinical implications of the study are that: • Inpatient services should review the structure and layout of wards, and remove or cover all potential ligature points. • Inpatient services should review current practices with regard to non-routine observations, and where necessary closely observe exits on open wards. • Early follow-up in the community (within seven days) should be provided after discharge for patients at risk, such as those with a history of severe mental illness or recent history of selfharm. • There should be assertive attempts to remain engaged with patients who discharge themselves.