Manual: Behavioral Health
Chapter: National Patient Safety Goals NPSG
Topic: Ligature and/or Suicide Risk Reduction - Ligature-resistant Products

Does The Joint Commission recommend specific ligature-resistant products ?

Any examples are for illustrative purposes only.

No, The Joint Commission does not recommend products. Organizations should review Recommendations for Suicide Prevention in Healthcare Settings, conduct a risk assessment of the environment, determine which products to appropriately install (based on manufacturers' instructions), and ensure that they are functioning properly.

Ligature resistant is defined as: without points where a cord, rope, bedsheet, or other fabric/material can be looped or tied to create sustainable point of attachment that may result in self-harm or loss of life.

See also FAQ Titled "Is there a height requirement in order to consider something a "ligature risk"?"

Additional Resource
Suicide Prevention Portal
 
Last updated on January 29, 2024 with update notes of: Review only, FAQ is current
First Published Date: December 20, 2018
Last Reviewed Date: January 29, 2024