Depressed self-referral to ED

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Just curious how other hospitals might have handled the situation. Early 40's female pt self-referred to ED complaining of feeling depressed and suicidal ideation - no plan, however. It was a little surreal because pt appeared well-put-together - very calm and composed. However, pt admitted to drinking earlier. Pt attempted to leave before her psych eval could be conducted, saying she felt better and had changed her mind. At that point, pt was re-directed to a locked room, her clothing, underwear were taken, ankle to ankle restraints applied. She ended up being discharged after her eval. Didn't know what other hospital policies might be in similar situation.

Specializes in Psych.

Virginia has decent DCO and TDO laws.

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Generally the police don't lock people up for that, on what charge would they be locking them up?

I am in Cambodia, mental health is poorly understood. The police wouldn't know what else to do with them. if they were white they may just be locked up so the police can get a bribe to let them out. I am sure they could make up any charge they liked. Unfortunately that is reality here.

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Specializes in Emergency, Trauma, Critical Care.

In California if anyone mentions SI, HI, or is gravely disabled our doc orders a 1799. We immediately remove all belongings, and assign security. If the psych person comes and clears them. They talk to doc, arrange pt follow up and are released.

We assumed the worst to protect the pt. I've had enough pts try to hand themselves in the bathroom. I take chances with no ones lives as it's ultimately not my decision if they are safe to go home or not.

Regarding the restraints, sounds like overkill, but did she try to sneak out and become combative when they wouldn't let her go? I need more info to make a decisions regarding that. Hopefully there was an order. Especially since psych cleared her and let her go.

I've had several pts who were cleared to go home after we had them change. I always was very honest that it was for their safety, and the same rules apply to everybody.

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