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Pitchess Detention Center - North Facility / Chapter 5 - Line Procedures / Section 5-04 - Inmate Mental Health Services

5-04-040 Suicide Prevention


5-04-030 Handling of Suicidal Inmates
5-05-020 Wristbands and Positive Identification Procedures

PURPOSE OF ORDER:

The purpose of this order is to outline the procedures and tools that can be utilized with regards to suicide prevention.  

SCOPE OF ORDER:

This order shall apply to all personnel assigned to Pitchess Detention Center (PDC) North Facility.

ORDER:

 

GENERAL PROCEDURES

Personnel who identify an inmate who expresses suicidal ideation by word or action, or exhibits unusual behavior, which could result in a suicide, attempt suicide, or self-injurious behavior, either through observation or information received from another person, shall take the following actions:

  • Transfer the inmate to the visiting area of the module to maintain direct observation of the inmate at all times while awaiting medical evaluation
  • Complete a Behavioral Observation and Mental Health Referral Form (SH-J-407)
  • Escort the inmate to the medical clinic for evaluation by Correctional Health Services (CHS) personnel
  • Contact the Jail Mental Evaluation Team (JMET) and arrange for the inmate to be evaluated
  • If JMET is not available, coordinate with the watch deputy to ensure transportation of the inmate to Inmate Reception Center (IRC) within four hours to be evaluated by mental health personnel
  • Prior to the inmate being transferred to IRC for mental evaluation, personnel shall complete an electronic Inmate Special Handling Request (SH-J-181)

SUICIDE INTERVENTION KIT

A suicide intervention kit shall be maintained in each Module Control Office (MCO) and Dormitory Control Office (DCO).  These kits shall only be removed to assist in suicide intervention or during suicide intervention drills.  Each suicide intervention kit contains the following items:

  • Cut down tool
  • Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) mask
  • Two (2) towels
  • High risk exam latex gloves
  • Bag valve mask (“Ambu bag”)
  • Two (2) units NARCAN Nasal Spray (NAXOLONE)

Personnel assigned to the MCOs and DCOs shall inspect the suicide intervention kit at the beginning of their shift to ensure the tamper-resistant tape is intact. This inspection shall be documented in the electronic Uniform Daily Activity Log (e-UDAL).  If the tamper-resistant tape is broken or the suicide intervention kit appears opened, notification to a supervisor at the minimum rank of supervising line deputy shall be made.