Implementing an evidence-based approach to working with suicidal inpatients

Abstract

In this article, the authors describe the implementation of a new approach to working with suicidal patients in an inpatient psychiatric facility. The Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) has been under development for almost two decades, but has rarely been implemented or studied in an inpatient setting. Here the authors describe the context for this project, the nature of the CAMS intervention in this setting, the structure for the research aspect of the project, and some of the implementation issues that have arisen as the project has unfolded. The authors conclude that a solid foundation has been laid for an initiative that will both enhance assessment and treatment of at-risk patients and contribute to a body of knowledge that is currently lacking in evidence for interventions with suicidal patients.