What version of C-SSRS is specifically used for assessment since the last contact with the patient?

The version of the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) that is specifically used for assessing the time frame since the last contact with the patient is the "Recent" version. This version focuses on determining the individual's thoughts, behaviors, and any suicidal ideation or attempts that may have occurred in the period since the last assessment. It is designed to capture the most current state of the patient’s mental health, particularly in relation to suicidal thoughts and actions.

This approach ensures that clinicians can provide timely and relevant interventions based on the latest information about a patient's condition. The emphasis is placed on recent experiences, making this version particularly useful in acute care settings or during follow-up assessments after previous contact with the patient.

In contrast, other versions of the C-SSRS serve different purposes. The "Screener" is primarily aimed at quickly identifying individuals at risk without delving into past histories, the "Full version" includes comprehensive assessments over a longer time frame, and the "Lifetime" version investigates the patient's entire history related to suicidal ideation and behavior. Each version has its unique role in clinical practice, but for the specific scenario of assessing since the last contact, the "Recent" version is the most appropriate choice.