The development of the Suicidal Patient Observation Chart (SPOC): Delphi study

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Constant observation is crucial for suicidal inpatient safety.
• Current methods lack sufficient training and systematic documentation, leading to missed observations.
• Effective observation requires structure, control, flexibility, and therapeutic rapport.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify essential observation items for suicidal inpatients under constant observation.
• To develop a standardized documentation tool to improve the effectiveness of constant observation.

Main Methods:

• A Delphi survey was conducted with a panel of clinicians, service users, and researchers.
• Consensus was sought on important observation items during constant observation.
• A systematic documentation form was developed based on consensus items.

Main Results:

• Consensus was reached on 37 out of 40 (92%) proposed observation items.
• 28 observation items were rated as most important by the expert panel.
• The Suicidal Patient Observation Chart was developed, incorporating these 28 items across 24 observation periods.

Conclusions:

• Systematic documentation is vital for effective constant observation of suicidal patients.
• The Suicidal Patient Observation Chart provides a standardized tool for clinical practice.
• This tool aims to enhance the safety and care of suicidal inpatients through improved observation and communication.