New research suggests that suicidal patients who are under observation may be put at risk by relying on inexperienced staff and agency nurses.

Researchers from the University of Manchester's National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Homicide by People with Mental Illness found that 18 in-patients a year died by suicide while under observation. This usually meant checks every 10 to 15 minutes but in 9 percent the patient was supposed to be under constant observation.

For the study, researchers examined the details of all suicides in the UK over seven years under observation. They also conducted an on-line survey for patients and staff to report their experience of observation.

The researchers found that half of deaths examined occurred when checks were carried out by less experienced staff or agency staff who were unfamiliar with the patient. Deaths occurred when staff were distracted by ward disruptions, during busy periods, or when the ward was poorly designed.

"The current observation approach is not working safely enough. This is an important part of keeping patients safe, but we found that where deaths occurred, responsibility had often been given to less experienced members of staff," Professor Louis Appleby said in a statement. "Deaths also occurred when the protocols were not followed. Observation is a skilled task, not an add-on that can be delegated to anyone available."

The researchers recommend that suicide under observation should be considered an NHS 'never event' in England and Wales (or as a serious adverse event in Northern Ireland and Scotland) and should be subject to independent investigation.

The research also found that patients have mixed feelings about observation, finding it intrusive or protective. The process is often unpopular with staff.