What should be documented if a patient is judged not to be at imminent risk for suicide?

When a patient is assessed as not being at imminent risk for suicide, it is essential to document the mediating or protective factors that contributed to this judgment. Protective factors can include aspects such as a strong support system, coping skills, stable mental health, or a positive outlook towards the future. Identifying and documenting these factors is critical as they can provide crucial context for the current assessment and promote continued safety for the patient.

This documentation also serves to inform other clinicians about what factors are currently supporting the patient's well-being, indicating areas that might warrant further monitoring or intervention. These protective elements are key in distinguishing between patients who may have a higher risk of suicide and those who appear to be stable, thus ensuring comprehensive care.

While it is important to consider other aspects related to a patient's safety, such as risk factors or advice given, the primary focus in this situation revolves around articulating the supportive factors that mitigate the risk. This helps to create a balanced understanding of the patient's situation, which is critical for ongoing assessments and future interventions.