Psycure: Modern Psychiatry - Staff Policy on Emergency Procedures

I. Introduction

Psycure: Modern Psychiatry is committed to the safety and well-being of our patients. This Emergency Procedures policy provides guidance to staff on how to handle mental health emergencies or crises that may occur outside of scheduled appointments, prioritizing patient safety and appropriate intervention.

II. Scope

This policy applies to all staff members of Psycure: Modern Psychiatry, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, administrative staff, and any other personnel associated with the practice.

III. Recognizing a Mental Health Emergency

A mental health emergency is a situation where an individual poses an immediate danger to themselves or others due to a mental health condition. Signs of a mental health emergency may include:

  • Suicidal ideation or attempts: Talking about wanting to die, expressing desire, a plan, means to carry out the plan or history of a suicide attempt .

  • Homicidal ideation or threats: Expressing thoughts of harming others or making threats of violence.

  • Acute psychosis: Experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or severe disorganization of thought or behavior.

  • Severe agitation or aggression: Exhibiting extreme restlessness, irritability, or violent behavior.

  • Substance intoxication or withdrawal: Experiencing significant impairment due to drug or alcohol use or withdrawal.

IV. Immediate Actions in an Emergency

If a staff member becomes aware of a patient experiencing a mental health emergency, the following steps should be taken:

  • Assess the Situation: Quickly assess the level of risk and the patient's immediate needs.

  • Ensure Safety: If the situation poses an immediate danger to the patient or others, take steps to ensure safety, such as calling for assistance or moving to a safe location.

  • Contact Emergency Services: If the patient is in imminent danger, call 911 immediately.

  • Crisis Hotline: Provide the patient with the contact information for crisis hotlines and encourage them to seek immediate help:

    • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

    • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

    • The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 (for LGBTQ youth)

  • Stay with the Patient: If safe to do so, stay with the patient until help arrives or they are connected with appropriate resources.

  • Document the Incident: Thoroughly document the emergency situation, including the patient's presentation, actions taken, and any referrals made.

V. After-Hours Emergencies

  • Emergency Room: Advise patients to go to the nearest emergency room if they require immediate psychiatric evaluation and treatment.

VI. Prevention and Education

  • Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessments during patient evaluations to identify potential for emergencies.

  • Safety Planning: Develop safety plans with patients who are at risk for self-harm or suicide.

  • Patient Education: Educate patients about signs of a mental health crisis and how to access emergency services.

VII. Training

  • Staff Training: Psycure staff will receive training on recognizing and responding to mental health emergencies, including de-escalation techniques and crisis intervention strategies.

VIII. Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed and updated periodically to ensure its continued effectiveness and alignment with best practices in crisis intervention.

IX. Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact the Clinical Director.

X. Effective Date

This Emergency Procedures policy is effective 3/1/2025.

By prioritizing patient safety and providing clear guidelines for handling emergencies, Psycure: Modern Psychiatry aims to create a safe and supportive environment for all.