Prior to moving an inmate to suicide watch, what must be assessed?

The assessment of the severity of an inmate's risk for self-harm is crucial before moving them to suicide watch. This evaluation is essential because it helps determine the immediate need for intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the inmate. By accurately assessing the risk level, detention staff can identify those who are in critical need of close monitoring and may require a more restrictive environment to prevent any potential self-harm.

Understanding the severity of the risk allows for the development of appropriate care plans and interventions tailored to the inmate's specific situation. This proactive approach is vital in a detention setting where mental health issues may arise, and timely actions can make a significant difference in the inmate's safety and overall mental health outcomes.