TASR in suicide risk evaluation in patients in crisis

Abstract

Introduction and objective: To determine the value of the Tool for Assessment of Suicide Risk (TASR) for assessing suicide risk in the psychiatry admission room in patients in suicide crisis. Materials and methods: A case-control study was planned. The case group consisted of patients hospitalised after suicide attempt in suicide crisis (with diagnosed or suspected adjustment disorder). The control group comprised those with no previous suicide attempts. The TASR was performed in the admission room after psychiatric examination. Sociological data were also taken and included in the analysis. Results: In total, 82 patients hospitalised in psychiatric wards/acute poisons ward (aged 18–79 years) were recruited, of these 79 were included in the analysis (54 women, 25 men). No significant demographic nor socioeconomic differences were found between the case and control groups. Intergroup differences, at least at trend level, were observed for age over 65, harmful substance use, a history of physical or sexual abuse, anhedonia, anxiety and impulsive behaviour. No significant differences were noted in suicidal ideation, intention and plan. The proposed optimal total TASR score cut-off points between low, medium and high risk are 14 and 22 points. Conclusions: The TASR can be used in suicidal risk assessment in patients in crisis, but a holistic assessment is more important than one focused on individual risk factors, even suicidal thoughts or tendencies. However, the tool demonstrates low discriminatory power.