The foundational belief of Zero Suicide is that suicide deaths for individuals under the care of health and behavioral health systems are preventable. For systems dedicated to improving patient safety, Zero Suicide presents an aspirational challenge and practical framework for system-wide transformation toward safer suicide care.
Providers of care should always consider safe and protective environments upon where clients or patients with suicide risk are provided patient centered care while preserving the patient’s right to dignity in receiving care in the least restrictive setting possible. Involuntary hospitalization procedures should only be relied on only as a last resort.
Zero Suicide Colorado Strategic Framework
LEAD
- Encourage system leadership to formally adopt Zero Suicide
- Support policy and practice change at state and local level
TRAIN
- Sponsor ongoing clinical training opportunities
- Support general awareness training for all staff
IDENTIFY
- Promote suicide screening and assessment
- Embed protocols in electronic health records (EHR)
ENGAGE
- Elevate voices of lived experience to inform health
- Tailor services to meet client needs
TREAT
- Increase adherence to evidence-based standards of care in all settings
- Expand use of peer support and recovery services
TRANSITION
- Support care coordination efforts
- Provide telephonic caring contact post-ED discharge via Colorado Follow-Up Project
IMPROVE
- Track process and outcome metrics to drive performance
- Facilitate supportive monthly learning collaborative discussions