Emergency Department Care of the Patient with Suicidal or Homicidal Symptoms

Patients frequently present to the emergency department (ED) with acute suicidal and homicidal thoughts. These patients require timely evaluation, with determination of disposition by either voluntary or involuntary hospitalization or discharge with appropriate outpatient follow-up. Safety concerns should be prioritized for patients as well as ED staff. Patient dignity and autonomy should be respected throughout the process.
Source: Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America - Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Source Type: research