Suicide risk conversation
NCLEX-RN glossary · Psychosocial Integrity
Definition
A therapeutic communication technique involving direct, clear questioning to assess a client's intent, plan, and means for self-harm.
Suicide risk conversation in plain English
Direct questioning does not 'plant the idea' of suicide but is the only reliable way to identify high-risk clients requiring 1-to-1 observation. The tempting mistake is using vague or indirect language (e.g., 'Are you feeling okay?') instead of asking specifically about suicidal thoughts and plans.
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