title: EDs struggle with increased demand from patients with behavioral health concerns.
abstract: Busy EDs across the country are being challenged by spikes in patients presenting for care with behavioral health problems. Some hospitals have dealt with this issue by building separate units or areas within the ED designed to meet the needs of this patient population; however, experts suggest there is ample room for improvement in the way most EDs care for patients with behavioral health needs. Clinicians and staff need to accept responsibility for caring for patients with behavioral health issues, and they need to be appropriately educated and prepared for this task. Noting that one in every 10 suicides involves someone who has been seen in the ED within two months of dying, experts stress that suicide prevention training should be a top priority for EDs. Create a room or area within the ED that is away from the noise and lights so that it will have a soothing impact on patients who are highly distressed or agitated. Also, consider getting feedback from patients on steps that would make the ED more welcoming to clients with behavioral health issues. Look for model programs to learn from and consult with regarding strategies for improving behavioral health care in the ED.
mesh_terms: D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy*; D010564:Personnel, Hospital / Q000193:education; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology