Introduction
Veterans die by suicide at higher rates than nonveterans. Among veterans, those receiving Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care are less likely to die by suicide than veterans not enrolled with the Veterans Health Administation (VHA). Although data are available on the demographics, diagnoses, and treatment associated with higher suicide rates among VHA patients, less is known about the care of suicidal veterans at non-VHA health care facilities. This study aimed to identify assessment and referral practices of emergency departments at rural community hospitals related to care for suicidal veterans and explore the feasibility and acceptability of identifying veterans in need of postdischarge aftercare.
Methods
This qualitative exploratory study involved content analysis of semistructured interviews. Ten emergency clinicians from 5 rural Arkansas counties with high suicide rates were interviewed about their experiences working with suicidal patients within the emergency department and perceptions of assessment, management, and referral practices.
Results
Although most of the emergency departments had a process for assessing for suicide risk, emergency clinicians did not always feel confident in their knowledge of assessing and caring for suicidal patients. Military history was not included in assessment, treatment, or aftercare planning, nor were brief interventions such as safety planning or lethal means safety education provided.
Discussion
Best practices for suicide assessment and management of veterans exist; however, challenges specific to the emergency department regarding staff training and engaging the community to effectively link at-risk veterans to needed care hinder implementation. Veteran-inclusive assessment and intervention practices could enhance the quality of care provided in community emergency departments.
