When is an emergency psychiatric hospitalization necessary?
An emergency psychiatric hospitalization is needed when an individual or others realize that there is a very serious problem and that no other form of help will do. If the examining psychiatrist agrees, the individual may be admitted for a short period for evaluation and treatment. At MCES such a hospitalization may be voluntary or involuntary.
What happens after someone is admitted to MCES?
The patient is evaluated, stabilized, and oriented to the hospital, policies, and their rights. A physical examination is done to identify any medical needs or injuries. Insofar as the patient is able, he or she participates in the planning of their care. Medications are begun where indicated. Individual and group counseling starts as soon as possible.
How long will the hospital stay last?
At MCES the average inpatient length of stay is about 8 days. Some patients stay for a shorter period, and some stay longer. Our philosophy is to give care in the least restrictive setting possible. Discharge planning begins on admission and every effort is made to minimize stays consistent with patient need and safety.
How is care given at MCES?
MCES uses an intensive, multidisciplinary team approach. A psychiatrist oversees all care and medications. Psychologists give individual and group counseling. Psychiatric nurses administer medications and assure that the patient's needs are met. Social services arrange continuing care. Psych techs give support and meet day-to-day patient needs.
What if the individual is suicidal?
A suicide attempt or suicidal behavior such as serious self-injury is a common reason for a psychiatric hospitalization at MCES. Special precautions are taken including 24-hour one-to-one staff coverage for as long as the patient is at high risk. All patients are screened for suicidality. If a patient becomes suicidal during their stay they are closely monitored.
Are patients helped to understand why they need care?
At MCES all patients are educated about the nature of their disorder, short and long-term treatment options, and issues regarding ongoing risk or the possibility of recurrent crises. This is called psychoeducation and it is a very important part of effective mental health treatment. Educational sessions are given on a group and individual basis.
Do patients only receive clinical treatment and education?
At MCES patients are also provided with creative arts (e.g., painting or music) therapy and recreational therapy. There are also indoor and outdoor recreational activities. Patients have time for TV, listening to CDs, and reading, if they wish.
What about special patient needs, like diet or language?
MCES can accommodate medically restricted diets and most cultural preferences. More than a dozen languages are spoken among the staff. Forms and documents are available in Spanish. Translation and interpretative services will be arranged for on a case-by-case basis to facilitate care and assure patient understanding.
Why do some patients seem better in a few days or less?
Some actually do recover quickly. Others just respond well to the hospital's highly structured setting. In most cases the symptoms and the problem behavior are under control. The individual still needs care for the underlying disorder. This is why the psychiatrist may recommend extending the hospital stay.
What if I feel uncomfortable about helping someone be hospitalized?
You should understand that you are helping someone who temporarily can't help herself or himself. You may be keeping the person from harming herself or himself or someone else. Helping with a behavioral heath emergency is just like helping with any other medical emergency. At MCES an inpatient admission is the last care option.
Why are psychiatric hospital readmissions sometimes necessary?
Serious mental illness, substance abuse, or other major behavioral health problems are complex, progressive, and persistent. Schizophrenia can't be cured, only managed, and there may be recurrent crises. Severe depression may often return. Substance abusers may relapse before achieving recovery. Noncompliance with treatment may also lead to rehospitalization.
What about payment for an emergency psychiatric hospitalization?
MCES serves patients based upon need regardless of ability to pay. MCES accepts any reimbursement that covers its services, including Medicare and Medicaid. Uninsured patients are assisted to apply for coverage. Private payment arrangements are established for those able to pay. Other hospitals may have different policies.
Posted 08.22.01
© Copyright, MCES, Inc., 2001.