Assessing suicide risk in veterans: The role of the nurse practitioner

Background: Statistics have shown that veteran men and women are at greater risk for suicide than the general population. In order to decrease the incidence of suicide in veterans, nurse practitioners (NPs) and other health care professionals must not only become more aware of the risk factors for veteran suicides but also develop strong psychiatric interviewing skills. Purpose: To discuss the risk factors associated with veteran suicide, the assessment tools to ensure a comprehensive suicide assessment and the application of these tools by an NP or other health care professional to a case study. Methods: Review of published literature on the topic. Conclusion: This paper will provide valuable information for NPs and other health care professionals when assessing for suicide risk in veterans.

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