Citation

Obegi JH. J. Psychiatr. Pract. 2022; 28(6): 485-491.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/PRA.0000000000000668

PMID

36355588

Abstract

Constant observation is a necessary albeit controversial procedure. Although widely used in psychiatric hospitals to maintain the safety of patients experiencing acute suicidality, constant observation is associated with many medicolegal hazards. Some hazards threaten patients directly, others undermine the effectiveness of treatment, and still others challenge clinical decision-making and suicide risk assessment. Nevertheless, clinicians can take proactive steps to minimize potentially adverse effects of constant observation on patients, preserve the integrity of treatment, and limit legal exposure.

Language: en