Out-of-Hospital Suicide Crisis Intervention through Clinical Simulation from the University

By Antonio Martínez

Optimizing University Education for Nursing Students: The Key Role of Simulation in the Management of Out-of-Hospital Suicide Crises

Researchers: Pablo Del Pozo Herce and colleagues

Suicide remains the leading cause of non-natural death in Spain, with a concerning increase in the age groups between 15 and 29 years. Given its prevalence, undergraduate education should address an approach that allows for the identification of warning signs and knowing how to seek help.

The education of university students in the management of out-of-hospital suicide crises is an essential prevention strategy not only to prepare future mental health professionals but also to transform attitudes and perceptions towards mental health in society at large. First, effective management of suicide crises requires a deep understanding of protective factors, risk factors, warning signs, and appropriate interventions. By providing students with comprehensive education in this regard, they are empowered to accurately identify and assess at-risk individuals, as well as to intervene effectively to prevent suicide.

The inclusion of clinical simulation in the University offers a unique opportunity for students to practice and enhance their skills in a controlled and safe environment. During these simulations, students can face realistic scenarios and develop effective communication skills, empathy, and active listening. For this reason, the use of advanced clinical simulation in realistic environments in the training of future nursing professionals allows for the learning of tools for managing difficult situations as future members of healthcare teams, who, on many occasions, will be the first responders in the detection and management of out-of-hospital suicide crises. With proper case planning, this allows for a greater awareness and understanding of the characteristics of caring for people with mental health problems, which includes, among others, aspects such as social stigmas and structural barriers that affect well-being and access to care. Alongside this, students can learn and assimilate different suicide prevention strategies at the community level, including the identification of protective factors and the promotion of safe and supportive environments. This contributes to a broader view of mental health as an integral component of human well-being, and not just the absence of illness.

Thus, this study aims, through a phenomenological study using focus groups and reflective narratives, to explore nursing students' perceptions of the approach, management, and intervention of suicide crises through clinical mental health simulation.

In conclusion, simulation in suicide intervention proves to be an effective tool in overcoming these difficulties by providing a controlled environment that enhances skills and perceptions regarding mental health. The results show that, despite initial insecurity, students experience a positive change in their attitudes, expressing a more significant interest in the mental health specialty and reducing associated stigma

Original paper:

Del Pozo-Herce, P., Tovar-Reinoso, A., Martínez-Sabater, A., Chover-Sierra, E., Pacheco-Tabuenca, T., Carrasco-Yubero, J., ... & García-Carpintero Blas, E. (2024). Mental Health Nursing Student’s Perception of Clinical Simulation about Patients at Risk of Suicide: A Qualitative Study. Nursing Reports, 14(1), 641-654.. https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep14010049