Quantitative content analysis of Freedom of Information requests examining the extent and variations of tools and training for conducting suicide risk assessments in NHS Trusts across England.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Determining the risk for suicide is a difficult endeavour. Clinical guidance in the UK explicitly advises against using risk assessment tools and scales to determine suicide risk. Based on Freedom of Information (FoI) requests made to NHS Trusts in England, this study provides an overview of suicide risk assessment tools in use, training provided in how to use such assessments, and explores implementation of suicide risk assessment guidance in practice in English NHS Trusts.

Design

A cross-sectional survey of suicide risk assessment tools and training gathered via FoI requests and subjected to a content analysis.

Setting

FoI requests were submitted to NHS Trusts across England.

Results

A wide variety of suicide risk assessments tools were identified

SUBMITTER: Fedorowicz S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10603533 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature