AONL members discuss how CNOs can prevent nurse suicides

CNOs can take steps to address underlying issues making nurses more likely than people in other professions to commit suicide, two AONL members say. Betty Jo Rocchio, DNP, RN, senior vice president and CNE at Mercy in St. Louis, says health systems should offer flexible hours and environments supporting nurses to give them more control over their personal and work life. Mercy offers an employee assistance programs with mental health resources. Deana Sievert, DNP, RN, CNO at Ohio State Wexner University and Ross Heart Hospitals in Columbus, says CNOs should concentrate on staff support structures and nursing workflows. She urges CNOs to be aware of day-to-day frustrations that can accumulate and encourages CNOs to screen nurses for suicide risk. September is National Suicide Prevention month. (HealthLeaders Media article, 9/13/24)