Communication Between Correctional Officers and Mental Health Staff Module 18
Communicating Well
Improving Daily Communications
Levels of Urgency Emergency Urgent Routine
When Is Mental Health Referral Needed?
Use the Referral Questions for Guidance
Handle It Now Always inform the incoming shift of developing issues Issues may not be on emergency on your shift but may reach crisis soon
Check Points Can Be Help Points Activity
Communications Best Practices Ask the Referral Questions (see your handout) Rate Urgency Emergency: the immediate potential to threaten life or limb Urgent: non-life threatening conditions that could deteriorate quickly into danger Routine: conditions that doesn’t threaten danger and will likely resolve on their own Keep Continuity Prepare the next shift with any concerns that could become urgent or emergent
Activity Debrief
Thank You