Crisis Triage Psych

[nina12345]

Hello! Anyone have experience as a psychiatric crisis triage nurse? I'm moving from inpatient to this role and am eager to start. I want to hear your experiences in this role! ANy tips would be greatly appreciated

[Laurean]

I am in triage. The department is called the PES, short for psychiatric emergency services. I think 2 pieces of advice I can give is to understand that some of the medical issues in our patients presents as psych issues, and to always stay calm.

I have had people present after they have cut their arm open in the parking lot, present with lith tox or better yet in serotonin syndrome. You must be aware of the early onset of psych crisis issues such as an autistic meltdown or a psychotic break. This will decrease behavioral codes.

Don't let medical facilities try to explain psych s/s to you. They do not understand our patients or the process it takes to get them hospitalized. Know your legal system and patient rights. Know that you will make many APS and CPS reports and you will learn to multitask while on hold.

Most of all enjoy the experience. I do it now because I have just the right amount of patient contact without getting burned out of the day to day 12+ hour shifts that deal with the stress. After doing this I would not want to go back to the floor full time. Have fun and good luck.