Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam

What does the pneumonic SLAP stand for in assessing suicide risk?

1. Sleep, Lethality, Aim, Plan

2. Social support, Lethality, Access, Plan

3. Substance use, Lethality, Access, Prevention

4. Support, Loss, Access, Prevention

The correct answer is: Social support, Lethality, Access, Plan

The pneumonic SLAP is an established framework used to assess suicide risk, and it stands for Social support, Lethality, Access, and Plan. Each component of SLAP is crucial in understanding an individual’s risk factors for suicide. - Social Support: Evaluating the level of support a person has from family, friends, or community can provide insight into their resilience during times of crisis. Lack of social support can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. - Lethality: This refers to the potential danger of the method the individual is considering for self-harm or suicide. Understanding the lethality of a plan helps assess the urgency of intervention needed. - Access: This aspect examines whether the individual has access to the means they consider using for self-harm or suicide. Limitations on access to lethal means can be a protective factor and may lessen immediate risk. - Plan: Determining if there is a specific plan for suicide gives a clearer idea of the individual's intent and risk level. A well-defined plan often indicates a higher risk for suicide. Integrating these components into a risk assessment can guide healthcare providers in formulating effective intervention strategies and determining the necessary level of care for the individual at risk.