The Safety Plan Worksheet is a critical clinical tool designed to help patients identify personal warning signs, coping strategies, and sources of support during times of emotional crisis or suicidal ideation. It walks the individual through steps such as recognizing triggers, using internal coping skills, contacting trusted people, and reaching out to professional resources or emergency services.
For psychiatric NPs, this worksheet serves both as a therapeutic intervention and a risk management strategy. It encourages patient autonomy while reinforcing a collaborative safety net that can be activated in moments of distress. Whether used in outpatient settings, crisis care, or inpatient discharge planning, the Safety Plan Worksheet is essential for suicide prevention and maintaining patient stability outside of clinical environments.