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Treatment of suicidal patients: A risk‐benefit analysis
Author(s) -
Overholser James C.
Publication year - 1995
Publication title -
behavioral sciences and the law
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.649
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1099-0798
pISSN - 0735-3936
DOI - 10.1002/bsl.2370130106
Subject(s) - medicine , liability , medical emergency , poison control , human factors and ergonomics , risk assessment , suicide prevention , injury prevention , risk analysis (engineering) , intensive care medicine , computer science , computer security , business , finance
Abstract A therapist may be held liable when a patient commits suicide if previous suicidal tendencies were observed but reasonable precautions were not taken. In order to reduce liability and enhance treatment effectiveness, therapeutic decisions can be critiqued by estimating the risks and benefits associated with different courses of action. An evaluation of risks and benefits can be used to guide decisions regarding assessment, hospitalization, medications, and discharge from the hospital. A risk‐benefit analysis can help therapists utilize a broad range of treatment options while allowing patients the maximum degree of autonomy. Additionally, all aspects of treatment should be well documented, including information about the specific course of action chosen, other treatment options considered, and the therapeutic rationale for deciding which treatment plan was best suited to the patient's needs.