NCJ Number
128405
Journal
Jail Suicide Update Volume: 3 Issue: 2 Dated: (Fall 1990) Pages: 1-5
Date Published
1990
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The model suicide prevention program in Alabama's Mobile County Jail makes the best use of limited resources and incorporates behavioral contracts and the buddy system.
Abstract
Following a jail suicide in 1978, efforts were made to establish a medical division within the jail. A part-time physician and a part-time psychiatrist were hired, and at lease two nurses were assigned to each shift. With the medical division in full operation, suicide prevention begins upon entry to the Mobile County Jail. Booking officers are trained to look for symptoms of suicidal behavior and to administer an intake screening form. If the medical division believes the arrestee is potentially suicidal, the individual is asked to sign a behavioral contract. In this contract, inmates promise not to harm themselves while incarcerated. Most inmates agree to sign the contract, although those who refuse are assigned to the buddy system. This system involves a select group of inmates who are trained as buddies. They are stationed only a few feet away from the suicidal inmate and work 8-hour shifts. The buddy is encouraged to maintain conversation, but never to give advice. Any demonstration of suicidal behavior is immediately reported by the buddy to both correctional and nursing staff. A checklist of symptoms that may indicate emotional disturbances is provided. 1 table