@article{ref1,
title="Implementing an emergency department telephone follow-up program for suicidal patients: successes and challenges",
journal="Joint Commission journal on quality and patient safety",
year="2019",
author="Catanach, Brittany and Betz, Marian E. and Tvrdy, Charissa and Skelding, Cheri and Brummett, Sarah and Allen, Michael H.",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Many emergency department (ED) patients are at risk of suicide, and the ED is a key setting for suicide prevention. Although ED interventions are associated with reduced suicide attempts and societal costs, most EDs do not have follow-up programs. This pilot investigated the feasibility and implementation process of a statewide program. <br><br>METHODS: This multicenter prospective pilot program included all patients evaluated for suicidal behavior in, and discharged home from, participating EDs across Colorado. Suicidal ED patients were offered crisis hotline follow-up calls that focused on continued support and connection to outpatient care. Data collection at EDs focused on implementation issues and referral and participation rates; the crisis line collected patient information and call statistics. <br><br>RESULTS: From July 1, 2015, to October 31, 2017, the program expanded to 15 EDs covering almost a quarter of ED visits in a large, high-burden state. Some sites achieved 100% referral rates, suggesting that referral became routine, and the mean referral rate was 76%. High referral rates were associated with an ED champion, record system enhancements, repeated training, and regular communication. Of 5,620 visits with referral, 2,737 resulted in participation (48.7%). Although the program was free for patients, half declined it. The call center made 15,414 calls, ultimately reaching all but 9.8% of participants. Few participants reported repeat ED visits or suicide attempts. <br><br>CONCLUSION: This project demonstrated the feasibility of using a state crisis hotline to provide postdischarge follow-up for suicidal ED patients. Continued investigation into sustainable implementation and outcomes of such programs is warranted.<br><br>Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier Inc.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1553-7250",
doi="10.1016/j.jcjq.2019.07.009",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jcjq.2019.07.009"
}