title: Assessing and responding to suicidal jail inmates.
abstract: Assessing and responding to suicidal risk among inmates is discussed based on a comprehensive literature review and personal experience. Sections detailing jail conditions, suicide risk factors, reasons for self-harm, and practical responses are included. Intoxication, isolation, and the initial 24 hours of incarceration stand out as significant risk factors within the jail. Determination of risk and considerations in decision-making are emphasized from a practical standpoint, while the inmate's safety and mental health, as well as accountability, are deemed priorities.
authors.affiliation: Rock County Mental Health, Crisis Intervention Unit, Janesville, Wisconsin.
authors.forename: G E
authors.initials: GE
authors.lastname: Winkler
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010552:Personality Assessment; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology*; D012307:Risk Factors; D012934:Social Isolation; D013405:Suicide / Q000523:psychology*; D000092864:Suicide Prevention