Early Detection Measures and Triage Procedures for Suicide Ideation in Chronic Pain Patients

Issues on early detection of suicide potential of patients in a chronic pain centre are looked at. Early detection measures used at the Vanderbilt Pain Control Center include: a Symptom Checklist; medical and psychological interviews; monitoring of changes in emotional disturbance; and, if warranted administration of the Scale of Suicidal Idation. 3 cases are presented that indicate that the results of an assessment measure should be tempered with clinical judgement. (31 refs.)