What is a helpful strategy for preventing suicide for clients about to be discharged from a psychiatric unit?

Providing all clients with a crisis phone line card is a practical strategy for preventing suicide among clients about to be discharged from a psychiatric unit. This approach ensures that clients have immediate access to support during a crisis. The presence of a hotline number can empower clients by connecting them to trained professionals who can provide immediate assistance, guidance, or intervention if they feel distressed or suicidal after their discharge. It serves as a resource they can turn to when they might find themselves in a vulnerable state, reinforcing the ongoing support available outside of the hospital environment.

While making suicidal clients write a personal prevention plan can also be beneficial, it may not be feasible for all clients and may impose additional stress on them during an already challenging time. Educating family and friends is valuable; however, it requires cooperation and may not always be implemented effectively post-discharge. Limiting medication refills can inadvertently increase stress for clients, as it may create barriers to access necessary medication, which is counterproductive to their stability and recovery. Thus, providing a crisis phone line card stands out as a tangible and immediate tool to enhance safety and support during the transition from inpatient to outpatient care.