Mental Health Monthly #9: Suicide Assessment in the ED: Using the ICAR2E Tool

Dr. Kim Nordstrom discusses a valuable bedside tool for evidence-based assessment in patients that visit the ED and are at risk for suicidality. Dr. Nordstrom is a practicing emergency psychiatrist and associate professor with the University of Colorado. As a developer and user of the tool, Dr. Nordstrom gives us invaluable insight into a new avenue for psychiatric care in emergency medicine. Educational Pearls: An app-based tool made in conjunction with ACEP Identifying suicidal risk for each patient, including assessment of clues like bodily injuries Communicating with patients to create a safe space and enhance rapport Assessing for threats such as environmental or personal objects Risk assessment; previous attempts, mental state, life stressors, etc. Risk reduction once discharge is thought possible Extension of care once patients leave the ED Link to Access the ICAR2E Tool References Wilson MP, Moutier C, et al. Emergency department recommendations for suicide prevention in adults: The ICAR2E mnemonic and a systematic review of the literature. Am J Emerg Med. 2020; 38:571-581. Summarized by Jorge Chalit The Emergency Medical Minute is excited to announce that we are now offering AMA PRA Category 1 credits™ via online course modules. To access these and for more information, visit our website at https://emergencymedicalminute.org/cme-courses/ and create an account. Donate to EMM today!