Posted By Rory Reed Guess we all have felt like this sometimes. Serioulsy, does anyone know of how risk assessment/prevention can be accomplished to prevent those in care ie mental health units from causing themselves harm ie slitting wrists; hanging themselves etc. thank hou

Posted By Stuart C I guess the answer has two parts, the first being the clinical assessment of the individual which should cover their propensity to selve harm. This could help identify antecedent behaviour patterns which may signal attempts to self harm, allowing staff to intervene (through therapeutic techniques) increase observation levels etc etc. This could also identify times that self harm may be more likely e.g. following family visits. Secondly there is the risk assessment of the environment and access to objects that could cause harm e.g. keeping cutlery in locked draws restricting access to kitchens, ensuring visitors do not bring in prohibited items. Also facilities can be designed to eliminate ligature points, hospitals for example should in such areas have collapsable curtain rails. I am sure others can give more detailed advice. SC