1. Communication Between Correctional Officers and Mental Health Staff
Module 18

2. Communicating Well

3. Improving Daily Communications

4. Levels of Urgency
Emergency
Urgent
Routine

5. When Is Mental Health Referral Needed?

6. Use the Referral Questions for Guidance

7. 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

8. Check Points
Can Be Help Points
Activity

9. 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

10. Activity Debrief

11. Thank You