Citation

Fernández García-Andrade R, Pera Bajo FJ, Fernández Rodríguez E. Rev. Esp. Med. Legal 2012; 38(4): 155-160.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Madrid Asociacion Nacional de Medicos Forenses, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.reml.2012.07.002

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Self-harm risk assessment: Numerous clinical guidelines specify the variables that must be recorded in the clinical reports to assess the risk of self-harm. However, these recommendations are not always implemented. Medical and legal implications: This assessment involves frequent professional liability claims. However, with regard to Supreme Court judgments, convictions are rare in both criminal and civil law.

CONCLUSIONS: When compiling a clinical report of a suicide attempt, we recommend a complete clinical evaluation according to the lex artis. In addition, following protocols and clinical scales can have legal value and be very useful to improve the way information is documented, as well as improve the completeness of the clinical evaluation. Regardless of the tools used for assessment, results should always be recorded in the medical record. © 2012 Asociacion Nacional de Medicos Forenses. Publicado por Elsevier Espana, S.L. Todos los derechos reservados.

Language: es

Keywords

Suicide; Self-harm; Assessment; Medical and legal implications