The Persistent Suicidal Patient
CHARLES WATKINS M.D.1,
J. E. GILBERT M.D.2, , and
WILLIAM BASS M.D.3
1 Professor of psychiatry and assistant to the chancellor for development, Louisiana State University Medical Center, 1542 Tulane Ave., New Orleans, La. 70112
2 Associate chief of staff, Biloxi Veterans Administration Center, Gulfport Division, New Orleans
3 Resident in psychiatry, Biloxi Veterans Administration Center, Gulfport Division, New Orleans
Stimulated by their observation of a patient who persistently attempted suicide, the authors conducted a survey to determine the incidence of similar behavior among other hospitalized psychiatric patients. Reports from 53 hospitals indicated that highly unusual methods are devised by patients who are under greater supervision because of previous attempts. The authors conclude that these patients will require even more serious staff effort as trends in care tend to liberalize.
