Building an Evidence-Based Nursing Protocol for Suicide Risk Identification and Early Intervention in Non-Psychiatric Healthcare Settings

Abstract

Suicide constitutes a major global public health concern, with increasing incidence across diverse populations and healthcare contexts. Nurses often represent the first point of contact for individuals experiencing suicidal ideation, particularly in non-psychiatric settings such as primary care, emergency departments, and community health services. Despite this critical role, nursing practice related to suicide risk identification and early intervention frequently remains fragmented, experience-based, and insufficiently supported by structured protocols. The present article aims to develop and theoretically substantiate an evidence-based nursing protocol for suicide risk identification and early intervention applicable to non-psychiatric healthcare settings. Drawing on contemporary evidence from mental health nursing, public health, and implementation science, the article outlines the conceptual foundations, methodological steps, and clinical logic underpinning protocol construction. Emphasis is placed on early recognition of risk indicators, structured nursing assessment, therapeutic communication, escalation pathways, and interprofessional collaboration. The proposed protocol seeks to enhance consistency, safety, and clinical confidence in nursing practice, while supporting a proactive, preventive approach to suicide within routine healthcare environments. This work contributes to the advancement of evidence-based nursing practice by translating research evidence into actionable, context-sensitive clinical guidance.