Clinicians often avoid the direct question for fear of prompting the thought. The evidence does not support that fear, and a direct question is often a relief to the patient. In a short consultation, one clear question is better than none.
- Ask plainly: 'Have you had thoughts of ending your life?'
- Follow a yes with questions about plans, means and what has stopped them so far
- Ask about access to means, including stored medicines and pesticides
- Agree a safety plan and a date for review before the patient leaves
Why it matters
The consultation in the weeks before a suicide is often the last chance to ask.
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