HSEMW 26.116, Clinical Nurse Specialist - Mental Health - Sain-Altra Cliniciúil Meabhairshláinte, Suicide Crisis Assessment Nurse (SCAN)

SCAN CNS will follow a Model of Care that aligns with the four components of the NCPSHI: a compassionate, empathic response for people who have self-harmed or are suicidal; an expert biopsychosocial assessment, including a written emergency care plan; family involvement where possible, and follow-up and linkage to next appropriate care (SCAN 2022).

SCAN CNS will complete assessments, develop a collaborative safety plan with the patient and a family member or supportive adult, and provide a follow-up phone call and linkage to the next appropriate care.

All current SCAN and equivalent practitioners will be supported as staff implementing the NCPSHI. SCAN practitioners will be required to implement the NCPSHI, and attend required training and education events organised by NCPSHI.

Data will be collated on all presentations to SCAN services, and submitted to the NCP office on a monthly basis. The NCPSHI office will review the practice, supervision and work practices of all SCAN practitioners, and support the practitioner and the service in fully implementing the NCPSHI.

Key to effective working between GPs and the SCAN service and between GPs and secondary mental health services is effective and timely communication. There will be a requirement to work collaboratively to develop pathways of care along with referral procedures with other statutory and voluntary agencies within the community/ locality.