NURSE CARE STRATEGIES FOR PATIENTS WITH SUICIDAL BEHAVIOR

Abstract

 Suicidal behavior is a complex and multifactorial phenomenon that involves ideation, planning, attempts, and completed suicide, requiring qualified attention from health services. In this context, nurses, especially in Primary Health Care, occupy a strategic position in the early identification of risk signs, welcoming care, and continuity of care for patients experiencing psychological distress. This study aimed to identify nursing care strategies for patients with suicidal behavior. This is an integrative literature review conducted in the LILACS, SciELO, BDENF, PubMed/MEDLINE, and PePSIC databases, including full-text, free-access studies in Portuguese and English related to nursing practice in the context of suicidal behavior. The final sample consisted of 12 studies. The results showed that care strategies involve qualified listening, welcoming care, bond formation, identification of risk factors, assessment of severity, continuous follow-up, family participation, and articulation with the health care network. Challenges were also identified, such as insufficient professional training, insecurity, stigma, absence of protocols, and weaknesses in the care network. It is concluded that nurses play a fundamental role in suicide prevention, making it necessary to strengthen mental health training, continuing education, and the organization of health services.