Identification and Monitoring of Suicide Risk in Primary Care Settings

In an attempt to reduce suicide rates, efforts have focussed on detection & management of suicidal patients in primary care settings, given that an estimated 45% of suicide victims see their physician in the month prior to their death. This article reviews recent literature & provides an overview of suicide risk factors & assessment of suicide risk. The importance of assessing & managing suicide ideation & behaviours & risk factors is highlighted. (75 refs.) JA