Article Title

The In-Hospital Suicide: A Psychological Autopsy of a System Involving Borderline Dynamics

Authors

Kathleen A. Hughes, MD, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
Al Santos, MD, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South CarolinaFollow

Abstract

This manuscript reviews principles of hospital management in the care of severe borderline patients with concomitant affective syndromes. The case presented highlights a process of experiential learning in a novice clinician (a beginning psychiatric resident) and illustrates several critical areas of concern with these patients. The following four facets of clinical management are discussed: 1) Failed attempts to understand borderline dynamics and subsequent countertransference reactions; 2) Staff resistance to consistent, honest and open acknowledgement of suicide potential; 3) Special risks when borderline dynamics are combined with affective syndromes; and 4) Possible suicide preventive measures and their relative effectiveness.

Recommended Citation

Hughes, MD, Kathleen A. and Santos, MD, Al (1989) "The In-Hospital Suicide: A Psychological Autopsy of a System Involving Borderline Dynamics," Jefferson Journal of Psychiatry: Vol. 7: Iss. 2, Article 7.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.29046/JJP.007.2.005
Available at: https://jdc.jefferson.edu/jeffjpsychiatry/vol7/iss2/7