Does a patient who is at high risk for suicide with known or suspected SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) require the 1:1 observer to be in the room?

Any examples are for illustrative purposes only.

In this situation, it is imperative to address both the infection control and safety monitoring requirements for the patient. In units/areas that contain ligature and/or other safety risks, patients determined to be at high-risk for suicide must be under continuous observation with the ability to immediately intervene through the use of 1:1 observation - 1 qualified staff member to 1 high risk patient. A qualified staff member is one that has been trained and has demonstrated competence in working with suicidal patients and performing 1:1 observation. 

The Joint Commission does not prescribe a specific distance from which the observer must be to the patient. This is determined by the organization.  The observer must always have full continuous view of the patient and be able to intervene without delay if necessary.  

The current CDC recommendations for the patient with known or suspected COVID-19 include 

• If admitted, the patient with known or suspected COVID-19 should be placed in a single-person room with the door closed, if possible.
• The observer must have received training on and demonstrate an understanding of how to properly don, doff, dispose of, and maintain PPE.
• Health Care Providers who enter the room of a patient with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection should adhere to Standard Precautions and use a NIOSH-approved N95 or equivalent or higher-level respirator (or facemask if a respirator is not available) gown, gloves, and eye protection. 
• Health Care Providers in the room should wear an N95 or equivalent or higher-level respirator, eye protection, gloves, and a gown. 

Additional Resources
Suicide Prevention Portal
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance Portal
FAQ Ligatures and/or Suicide Risk Reduction – Video Monitoring of Patients at High Risk for Suicide