Suicidal risk in Emergencies: Challenges, approaches, and assessment strategies

Abstract

Suicidal risk in emergencies represents a critical challenge that requires a multidisciplinary approach for its identification, assessment, and management. This article reviews evidence-based strategies and tools to address this issue. Suicidal behavior is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors, demanding comprehensive evaluations that include identifying risk and protective factors, as well as reducing access to lethal means. The approach necessitates well-defined protocols in emergency services to enhance care from admission to discharge. Validated tools such as SAFE-T, C-SSRS, and others prove useful for assessing suicidal risk. In the context of Peru, epidemiological data reveal an increase in suiciderates, with predominant methods such as hanging. The review identifies theoretical models of suicide that explain the context and contribute to understanding the complexity of suicidal phenomena. This study concludes that empathetic, interdisciplinary care, detailed clinical history documentation, and the implementation of innovative strategies in emergency settings can make a significant difference in suicide prevention, promoting a patient-centered approach adapted to local realities.