Legal and Ethical Considerations in Psychiatric Emergencies.

Publication Title

Emergency medicine clinics of North America

Authors

Jay M Brenner
Thomas E Robey, Providence Regional Medical Center Everett, Department of Emergency Medicine, Everett, WashingtonFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-1-2024

Keywords

washington; everett; prmc; Humans; Emergencies; Physicians; Anxiety; Mental Disorders

Abstract

Individual rights can be limited in the context of psychiatric emergencies. The emergency physician should be familiar with state laws pertaining to involuntary holds. Physicians are equipped to perform a medical screening examination, address mental health concerns, and lead efforts to de-escalate agitation. The physician should conduct a thorough assessment and distinguish between malingering and mental health decompensation, when appropriate.

Clinical Institute

Mental Health

Specialty

Biomedical Ethics

Specialty

Behavioral Health

Specialty

Emergency Medicine

DOI

10.1016/j.emc.2023.06.019

Recommended Citation

Brenner, Jay M and Robey, Thomas E, "Legal and Ethical Considerations in Psychiatric Emergencies." (2024). Articles, Abstracts, and Reports. 8126.
https://digitalcommons.providence.org/publications/8126
10.1016/j.emc.2023.06.019