MDS 3.0: Researchers Recommend Strategies for Identifying Suicidal Residents

Researchers from the University of Rochester, Mississippi State University and West Virginia University have created an action plan for caregivers to use when asking residents about suicidal thoughts. The MDS 3.0 requires residents to answer questions about these thoughts and facilities have struggled to find the best way to approach the issue.

The researchers recommend using assessments such as the P4 screener to determine if residents are at a minimal, low or high risk of suicide. Based on the results, caregivers can then take actions described in the researchers' decision tree (such as referring the resident to a mental health provider). The researchers emphasize that all actions should be thoroughly documented.

To learn more and view the decision tree, click here.