Question

A 17-year-old girl presents to A&E after self-cutting her arms during an argument. She denies suicidal intent but feels hopeless. The nurse asks you to complete a suicide risk rating scale to decide if she can be discharged. According to NICE self-harm guidance, what is the best approach?

Accepted Answer

Do not use risk assessment scales to predict suicide or determine management; instead perform a comprehensive psychosocial assessment

Answer

Use a risk assessment tool to determine whether to admit or discharge

Answer

Discharge if the score is low on a risk scale

Answer

Admit all young people after any self-harm

Answer

Rely solely on family reports of risk

Practice question

A 17-year-old girl presents to A&E after self-cutting her arms during an argument. She denies suicidal intent but feels hopeless. The nurse asks you to complete a suicide risk rating scale to decide if she can be discharged. According to NICE self-harm guidance, what is the best approach?