Journal of Intensive and Critical Care Nursing

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (629)348-3199

Rapid Communication - Journal of Intensive and Critical Care Nursing (2025) Volume 8, Issue 2

The Impact of Psychiatric Nursing on Suicide Prevention and Risk Assessment

Chenyang Feng *

School of Health Policy and Management, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, China

*Corresponding Author:
Chenyang Feng
School of Health Policy and Management, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, China
E-mail: chenyangf78@163.com

Received: 02-Apr -2025, Manuscript No. AAICCN-25-163904; Editor assigned: 03-Apr-2025, PreQC No. AAICCN-25-163904 (PQ); Reviewed:16-Apr-2025, QC No. AAICCN-25-163904; Revised:22-Apr-2025, Manuscript No. AAICCN-25-163904 (R); Published:28-Apr-2025, DOI:10.35841/AAICCN-8.2.263

Citation: Feng C. The impact of psychiatric nursing on suicide prevention and risk assessment. J Intensive Crit Care Nurs. 2025;8(2):263

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Intensive and Critical Care Nursing

Introduction

Suicide is a major public health concern, with millions of individuals experiencing suicidal ideation each year. Psychiatric nurses play a critical role in suicide prevention and risk assessment by identifying at-risk individuals, providing immediate interventions, and offering long-term mental health support. Their expertise in therapeutic communication, crisis intervention, and evidence-based care significantly contributes to reducing suicide rates. This article explores the impact of psychiatric nursing in suicide prevention, highlighting assessment methods, intervention strategies, and future directions in mental health care [1].

Suicide is influenced by multiple biological, psychological, and social factors. Psychiatric nurses must recognize these risk factors to provide timely interventions. Depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder increase suicide risk. Substance abuse exacerbates impulsivity and emotional distress, contributing to suicidal behaviour [2].

Individuals with a history of suicide attempts are at a higher risk of future attempts. Social isolation, financial difficulties, and experiences of trauma (e.g., childhood abuse, domestic violence) can increase vulnerability. Stigma surrounding mental health prevents many individuals from seeking help. Neurochemical imbalances, particularly serotonin dysregulation, have been linked to suicidal behaviour [3].

By understanding these factors, psychiatric nurses can develop targeted interventions to reduce suicide risk. Risk assessment is a fundamental aspect of suicide prevention in psychiatric nursing. It involves evaluating an individual's likelihood of attempting suicide and determining appropriate interventions [4].

Psychiatric nurses use evidence-based screening tools to assess suicide risk, including: Evaluates suicidal ideation and past attempts. Screens for depression and suicidality. Assesses behavioral, cognitive, and emotional risk factors. Psychiatric nurses conduct structured interviews, asking direct questions about suicidal thoughts, plans, and access to lethal means [5].

Nonverbal cues, such as social withdrawal, agitation, or sudden mood improvements, may indicate increased suicide risk. Passive suicidal thoughts without intent or plan. Suicidal ideation with some intent but no immediate plan. Active suicidal intent with a well-formed plan and means to act. Based on risk levels, psychiatric nurses determine whether hospitalization, crisis intervention, or outpatient support is required [6].

Psychiatric nurses employ a variety of interventions to reduce suicide risk and support mental well-being. Immediate safety measures, such as hospitalization or 24/7 supervision, may be necessary for high-risk individuals. Nurses collaborate with emergency services to prevent imminent suicide attempts [7].

Active listening and empathy create a safe space for individuals to express distress. Techniques like motivational interviewing encourage hope and problem-solving. Psychiatric nurses assist with administering antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics to manage underlying mental health conditions [8].

Close monitoring is essential to prevent overdose risks, especially in the early weeks of antidepressant treatment. Psychiatric nurses integrate cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to help patients reframe negative thoughts. Mindfulness and distress tolerance techniques reduce emotional crises. Safety planning involves identifying coping strategies, support systems, and emergency contacts [9].

Nurses work with families to limit access to firearms, medications, and other lethal means. Involving family members in care planning enhances emotional support for individuals at risk. Psychiatric nurses coordinate with community resources, such as crisis hotlines and peer support groups. Psychiatric nurses play a role in long-term suicide prevention through education, policy advocacy, and community outreach [10].

Conclusion

Psychiatric nurses are at the forefront of suicide prevention, using clinical expertise to assess risk, provide immediate interventions, and support long-term recovery. Their contributions in crisis intervention, medication management, therapeutic communication, and community education significantly reduce suicide rates. Despite challenges, psychiatric nurses continue to advocate for improved mental health care and policies, ensuring that individuals at risk receive the necessary support. Enhancing psychiatric nursing education, increasing access to mental health services, and reducing stigma will further strengthen suicide prevention efforts worldwide.

References

  1. Abo AM, Alade KH, Rempell RG, et al. Credentialing pediatric emergency medicine faculty in point-of-care ultrasound: Expert guidelines. Pediatr Emerg Care. 2021;37(12):e1687-94.

    2. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

  2. Ecury-Goossen GM, Camfferman FA, Leijser LM, et al. State of the art cranial ultrasound imaging in neonates. J Vis Exp. 2015;2(96):e52238.

    3. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

  3. Grebenik CR, Boyce A, Sinclair ME, et al. NICE guidelines for central venous catheterization in children. Is the evidence base sufficient?. Br J Anaesth. 2004;92(6):827-30.

    4. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

  4. Weiss SL, Peters MJ, Alhazzani W, et al. Surviving sepsis campaign international guidelines for the management of septic shock and sepsis-associated organ dysfunction in children. Intensive Care Med. 2020;46(1):10-67.

    5. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

  5. Ishii S, Shime N, Shibasaki M, et al. Ultrasound-guided radial artery catheterization in infants and small children. Pediatr Crit Care Med. 2013;14(5):471-3.

    6. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

  6. Montirosso R, Provenzi L. Implications of epigenetics and stress regulation on research and developmental care of preterm infants. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2015;44(2):174-82.

    7. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

  7. Pallás-Alonso CR, Losacco V, Maraschini A, et al. Parental involvement and kangaroo care in European neonatal intensive care units: a policy survey in eight countries. Pediatr Crit Care Med. 2012;13(5):568-77.

    8. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

  8. Feeley N, Waitzer E, Sherrard K, et al. Fathers’ perceptions of the barriers and facilitators to their involvement with their newborn hospitalised in the neonatal intensive care unit. J Clin Nurs. 2013;22(3-4):521-30.

    9. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

  9. Singer LT, Salvator A, Guo S, et al. Maternal psychological distress and parenting stress after the birth of a very low-birth-weight infant. JAMA. 1999;281(9):799-805.

    10. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

  10. Provenzi L, Barello S, Fumagalli M, et al. A comparison of maternal and paternal experiences of becoming parents of a very preterm infant. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2016;45(4):528-41.

    11. Indexed at,  Google Scholar,  Cross Ref

Get the App