1
|
Wilson R, Jennings A, Redaniel MT, Samarakoon K, Dawson S, Lyttle MD, Savović J, Schofield B. Factors associated with repeat emergency department visits for mental health care in adolescents: A scoping review. Am J Emerg Med 2024; 81:23-34. [PMID: 38631148 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2024.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this review was to identify factors associated with multiple visits to emergency department (ED) services for mental health care in adolescents. METHODS Electronic databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science and ProQuest Dissertations & Thesis Global) were searched for evidence that presented an association between risk factors or correlates of multiple visits to the emergency departmental for mental health care by 10-24 year olds. High impact use was defined as at least one return ED visit for mental health care. Primary studies of any quantitative design were included, with no exclusions based on language or country and all possible risk factors were considered. Data were extracted and synthesised using quantitative methods; frequencies of positive, negative and null associations were summarised for categories of potential risk factors. RESULTS Sixty-five studies were included in the review. Most studies were from North America and reported a wide range of measures of high impact ED use, the most common being a binary indicator of multiple ED visits. Sex/gender and age were the most frequently reported risk factors. Measure of previous or concurrent access to mental health care was consistently positively associated with high impact use. Having private health insurance, compared with public or no insurance, was generally negatively associated with high impact use. Proxy measures of socioeconomic position (SEP) showed associations between lower SEP and more high impact use in a small number of studies. No other factors were consistently or uniformly associated with high impact use. CONCLUSIONS The review identified a substantial evidence base but due to the variability in study design and measurement of both risk factors and outcomes, no consistent risk factors emerged. More research is needed, particularly outside North America, using robust methods and high quality routinely collected data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Wilson
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration West (ARC West) at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK; University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | | | - Maria Theresa Redaniel
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration West (ARC West) at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK; University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Kithsiri Samarakoon
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration West (ARC West) at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK; University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Sarah Dawson
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration West (ARC West) at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK; University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Mark D Lyttle
- University of the West of England, Bristol, UK; Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, Bristol, UK.
| | - Jelena Savović
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration West (ARC West) at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK; University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fleury MJ, Imboua A, Grenier G. Barriers and Facilitators to High Emergency Department Use Among Patients with Mental Disorders: A Qualitative Investigation. Community Ment Health J 2024; 60:869-884. [PMID: 38383882 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-024-01239-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
This qualitative study explored reasons for high emergency department (ED) use (3 + visits/year) among 299 patients with mental disorders (MD) recruited in four ED in Quebec, Canada. A conceptual framework including healthcare system and ED organizational features, patient profiles, and professional practice guided the content analysis. Results highlighted insufficient access to and inadequacy of outpatient care. While some patients were quite satisfied with ED care, most criticized the lack of referrals or follow-up care. Patient profiles justifying high ED use were strongly associated with health and social issues perceived as needing immediate care. The main barriers in professional practice involved lack of MD expertise among primary care clinicians, and insufficient follow-up by psychiatrists in response to patient needs. Collaboration with outpatient care may be prioritized to reduce high ED use and improve ED interventions by strengthening the discharge process, and increasing access to outpatient care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Josée Fleury
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada.
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, 6875 LaSalle Blvd, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada.
| | - Armelle Imboua
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, 6875 LaSalle Blvd, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Guy Grenier
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, 6875 LaSalle Blvd, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Engström I, Hansson L, Ali L, Berg J, Ekstedt M, Engström S, Fredriksson MK, Liliemark J, Lytsy P. Relational continuity may give better clinical outcomes in patients with serious mental illness - a systematic review. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:952. [PMID: 38110889 PMCID: PMC10729558 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05440-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continuity of care is considered important for results of treatment of serious mental illness (SMI). Yet, evidence of associations between relational continuity and different medical and social outcomes is sparse. Research approaches differ considerably regarding how to best assess continuity as well as which outcome to study. It has hitherto been difficult to evaluate the importance of relational continuity of care. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate treatment outcomes, including effects on resource use and costs associated with receiving higher relational continuity of care for patients with SMI. METHODS Eleven databases were searched between January 2000 and February 2021 for studies investigating associations between some measure of relational continuity and health outcomes and costs. All eligible studies were assessed for study relevance and risk of bias by at least two independent reviewers. Only studies with acceptable risk of bias were included. Due to study heterogeneity the synthesis was made narratively, without meta-analysis. The certainty of the summarized result was assessed using GRADE. Study registration number in PROSPERO: CRD42020196518. RESULTS We identified 8 916 unique references and included 17 studies comprising around 300 000 patients in the review. The results were described with regard to seven outcomes. The results indicated that higher relational continuity of care for patients with serious mental illness may prevent premature deaths and suicide, may lower the number of emergency department (ED) visits and may contribute to a better quality of life compared to patients receiving lower levels of relational continuity of care. The certainty of the evidence was assessed as low or very low for all outcomes. The certainty of results for the outcomes hospitalization, costs, symptoms and functioning, and adherence to drug treatment was very low with the result that no reliable conclusions could be drawn in these areas. CONCLUSIONS The results of this systematic review indicate that having higher relational continuity of care may have beneficial effects for patients with severe mental illness, and no results have indicated the opposite relationship. There is a need for better studies using clear and distinctive measures of exposure for relational continuity of care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingemar Engström
- University Health Care Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, SE-701 82, Sweden.
| | - Lars Hansson
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lilas Ali
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jenny Berg
- SBU - Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mirjam Ekstedt
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | | | - Maja Kärrman Fredriksson
- SBU - Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Liliemark
- SBU - Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Lytsy
- SBU - Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Martínez B, Aranda MP, Sanko S, Aguilar I, Vega WA. Older Adult Frequent 9-1-1 Callers for Emergency Medical Services in a Large Metropolitan City: Individual- and System-Level Considerations. J Emerg Med 2023; 65:e522-e530. [PMID: 37852810 PMCID: PMC10871157 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High utilizers of 9-1-1 place a substantial burden on emergency medical services (EMS). Results of a retrospective review of records data of the City of Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) showed a significant increase in older adult high utilizers of 9-1-1. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to explore individual- and system-level factors implicated in EMS use among older adults, and to provide system recommendations to mitigate overuse. METHODS A phenomenological study was conducted, drawing from LAFD EMS records between 2012 and 2016 to identify and contact high-utilizing patients older than 50 years, their family, agency representatives, and LAFD personnel. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded and a thematic analysis was completed. RESULTS We conducted in-depth interviews with 27 participants, including patients (n = 8), their families (n = 6), social service agency representatives (n = 3), and LAFD personnel (n = 10). The following cross-cutting themes emerged: nature of 9-1-1 calls, barriers to access, and changing the system. In addition, LAFD and social service agency representatives identified the role of EMS responders and social agency representatives. Patients and their families agreed that previous encounters and interactions with emergency care responders were relevant factors. CONCLUSIONS This study described reasons for 9-1-1 calls related to medical and social service needs, including mental health care. Our analysis offers insight from different stakeholders' perspectives on access to medical care and types of barriers that interfere with medical care. All groups shared recommendations to advance access to medical and mental health care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Martínez
- USC Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, Los Angeles, California; USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, Los Angeles, California; University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - María P Aranda
- USC Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, Los Angeles, California; USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, Los Angeles, California; University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Stephen Sanko
- Keck School of Medicine of University Southern California, Los Angeles, California; Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles, California
| | - Iris Aguilar
- USC Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, Los Angeles, California; USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, Los Angeles, California; University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - William A Vega
- USC Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, Los Angeles, California
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Schoolmeester A, Keiser M. Use of Care Guides to Reduce Emergency Department Visits by High-Frequency Utilizers. J Emerg Nurs 2023; 49:863-869. [PMID: 37676184 DOI: 10.1016/j.jen.2023.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-frequency utilizers are defined as patients who present 10 or more times to the emergency department in a rolling 12-month period. High-frequency utilizers contribute to emergency department overcrowding and misuse of resources, and reduce the efficiency of health care systems. Care guides have proven to be an effective tool in reducing high-frequency utilizers. OBJECTIVE The objective of this quality improvement project was to determine if implementing a care guide for high-frequency utilizers to address the core needs of the patient and facilitate resources through case management consultation decreases the number of visits and the cost of unreimbursed care to the emergency department from high-frequency utilizers. METHODS We implemented care guides for high-frequency utilizers in September 2014. Prior to initiating the care guides, we educated the physicians, nurses, case managers, and social workers in the emergency department. RESULTS Following the implementation of the care guides, there was a steady decline in the number of high-frequency utilizers (338 in 2013-68 in 2021), the number of total emergency department visits by high-frequency utilizers (6025 in 2013-1033 in 2021), and unreimbursed care ($2,068,063 in 2013-$589,298 in 2021). CONCLUSION The use of care guides was a successful strategy in reducing emergency department visits and the cost of unreimbursed care by high-frequency utilizers by providing them with the education and resources they require to receive health care services in appropriate settings.
Collapse
|
6
|
Fleury MJ, Cao Z, Grenier G, Ferland F. Profiles of quality of life among patients using emergency departments for mental health reasons. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2023; 21:116. [PMID: 37880748 PMCID: PMC10601205 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-023-02200-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study identified profiles associated with quality of life (QoL) and sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients using emergency departments (ED) for mental health reasons and associated these profiles with patient service use. METHODS Recruited in four Quebec (Canada) ED networks, 299 patients with mental disorders (MD) were surveyed from March 1st, 2021, to May 13th, 2022. Data from medical records were collected and merged with survey data. Cluster analysis was conducted to identify QoL profiles, and comparison analyses used to assess differences between them. RESULTS Four QoL profiles were identified: (1) Unemployed or retired men with low QoL, education and household income, mostly having substance-related disorders and bad perceived mental/physical health conditions; (2) Men who are employed or students, have good QoL, high education and household income, the least personality disorders, and fair perceived mental/physical health conditions; (3) Women with low QoL, multiple mental health problems, and very bad perceived mental/physical health conditions; (4) Mostly women with very good QoL, serious MD, and very good perceived mental/physical health conditions. CONCLUSION The profiles with the highest QoL (4 and 2) had better overall social characteristics and perceived their health conditions as superior. Profile 4 reported the highest level of satisfaction with services used. To improve QoL programs like permanent supportive housing, individual placement and support might be better implemented, and satisfaction with care more routinely assessed in response to patient needs - especially for Profiles 1 and 3, that show complex health and social conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Josée Fleury
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Douglas Mental Health University Institute Research Centre Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute Research Centre Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, 6875 LaSalle Blvd, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada.
| | - Zhirong Cao
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute Research Centre Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Guy Grenier
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute Research Centre Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Francine Ferland
- School of Social Work, Addiction Rehabilitation Center, Laval University, National Capital University Integrated Health and Social Services Center, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kim M, Holton M, Sweeting A, Koreshe E, McGeechan K, Miskovic-Wheatley J. Using health administrative data to model associations and predict hospital admissions and length of stay for people with eating disorders. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:326. [PMID: 37165320 PMCID: PMC10170048 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04688-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses requiring a whole of health approach. Routinely collected health administrative data has clinical utility in describing associations and predicting health outcome measures. This study aims to develop models to assess the clinical utility of health administrative data in adult eating disorder emergency presentations and length of stay. METHODS Retrospective cohort study on health administrative data in adults with eating disorders from 2014 to 2020 in Sydney Local Health District. Emergency and admitted patient data were collected with all clinically important variables available. Multivariable regression models were analysed to explore associations and to predict admissions and length of stay. RESULTS Emergency department modelling describes some clinically important associations such as decreased odds of admission for patients with Bulimia Nervosa compared to Anorexia Nervosa (Odds Ratio [OR] 0.31, 95% Confidence Interval [95%CI] 0.10 to 0.95; p = 0.04). Admitted data included more predictors and therefore further significant associations including an average of 0.96 days increase in length of stay for each additional count of diagnosis/comorbidities (95% Confidence Interval [95% CI] 0.37 to 1.55; p = 0.001) with a valid prediction model (R2 = 0.56). CONCLUSIONS Health administrative data has clinical utility in adult eating disorders with valid exploratory and predictive models describing associations and predicting admissions and length of stay. Utilising health administrative data this way is an efficient process for assessing impacts of multiple factors on patient care and predicting health care outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcellinus Kim
- The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
- Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales Health, Sydney, Australia.
- The University of Sydney and Sydney Local Health District. Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Matthew Holton
- Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Arianne Sweeting
- The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales Health, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kleber KT, Kravitz-Wirtz N, Buggs SL, Adams CM, Sardo AC, Hoch JS, Brown IE. Emergency department visit patterns in the recently discharged, violently injured patient: Retrospective cohort review. Am J Surg 2023; 225:162-167. [PMID: 35871849 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Analysis of the costs associated with emergency department (ED) visits after discharge for violent injury could highlight subgroups for the development of cost-effective interventions to support healing and prevent treatment failures in violently injured patients. METHODS A retrospective cohort review was conducted of all patients with return ED visits within 90 days of discharge after treatment for a violent injury occurring between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2018. Hospital costs were calculated for each incidence and analyzed against demographic and injury type variables to identify trends. RESULTS 218 return ED visits were identified. Hospital costs showed a high frequency of low-cost visits. For more complex visits, distinct cost patterns were observed for Black and LatinX males compared to White males as a function of age. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of hospital cost per visit identified trends among different subgroups. Underlying etiologies presumably vary between groups, but hypothesis-driven further investigation and needs assessment is required. Understanding the driving forces behind these cost trends may aid in developing effective interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kara T Kleber
- Department of Surgery, University of California Davis School of Medicine, 235 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Nicole Kravitz-Wirtz
- Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, 2315 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Shani L Buggs
- Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, 2315 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Christy M Adams
- Trauma Prevention Program, UC Davis Health, University of California Davis, 4900 Broadway, Suite 1650, Sacramento, CA, 95820, USA.
| | - Angela C Sardo
- University of California Davis School of Medicine, 4610 X St, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Jeffrey S Hoch
- Division of Health Policy and Management, Department of Public Health Sciences and Center for Healthcare Policy and Research, University of California Davis, 4900 Broadway, Suite 1430, Sacramento, CA, 95820, USA.
| | - Ian E Brown
- Division of Trauma, Acute Care Surgery, and Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery University of California Davis Medical Center, 2335 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kirchner H, Schaefer M, Ullrich H, Hulsmans N, Juckel G, Brzoska P, Pajonk FGB. Factors predicting admission of psychiatric emergency contacts after presenting to the emergency department: results of a regression analysis. Ann Gen Psychiatry 2022; 21:42. [PMID: 36352413 PMCID: PMC9647959 DOI: 10.1186/s12991-022-00421-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychiatric emergency patients have great relevance in the interdisciplinary emergency department. Emergency physicians in this setting often have to make decisions under time pressure based on incomplete information regarding the patient's further treatment. The aim of this study was to identify possible predictors associated with an increased likelihood of inpatient psychiatric admission. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study of all psychiatric emergency contacts in an interdisciplinary emergency department (ED) of a general hospital in a large German city was conducted for 2015. A binary regression analysis was performed to identify possible predictors. RESULTS In 2015, a total of 21421 patient contacts were reported in the emergency department, of which 1733 were psychiatric emergencies. Psychiatric emergency was the fourth most common cause presenting to the ED. The most common diagnosis given was mental and behavioral disorders due to the use of psychotropic substances (F1). Factors associated with an increased probability of inpatient psychiatric admission were previously known patients, patients under a legal care order (guardianship), and previous outpatient medical contact. No association for gender or age was found. Data demonstrated a negative relationship between a neurotic, stress-related and somatoform disorder diagnosis and admission. CONCLUSIONS The present study shows some significant characteristics associated with an increased likelihood of emergency admission. Independent of the health care system, the predictors found seem to be relevant with regard to the probability of admission, when compared internationally. To improve the treatment of patients in emergency units, these factors should be taken into account.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heribert Kirchner
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany.
| | - Martin Schaefer
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Addiction Medicine, Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Essen, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Heiko Ullrich
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Kreisklinikum Siegen, Hospital, Siegen, Germany
| | - Nik Hulsmans
- Department of Psychology, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
| | - Georg Juckel
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Preventive Medicine, LWL University Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Patrick Brzoska
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany
| | - Frank-Gerald Bernhard Pajonk
- Zentrum Isartal Am Kloster Schäftlarn, Schäftlarn, Germany.,Department. of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wong AH, Ray JM, Cramer LD, Brashear T, Eixenberger C, McVaney C, Haggan J, Sevilla M, Costa DS, Parwani V, Ulrich A, Dziura JD, Bernstein SL, Venkatesh AK. Design and Implementation of an Agitation Code Response Team in the Emergency Department. Ann Emerg Med 2022; 79:453-464. [PMID: 34863528 PMCID: PMC9038629 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2021.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Agitation, defined as excessive psychomotor activity leading to violent and aggressive behavior, is becoming more prevalent in the emergency department (ED) amidst a strained behavioral health system. Team-based interventions have demonstrated promise in promoting de-escalation, with the hope of minimizing the need for invasive techniques, like physical restraints. This study aimed to evaluate an interprofessional code response team intervention to manage agitation in the ED with the goal of decreasing physical restraint use. METHODS This quality improvement study occurred over 3 phases, representing stepwise rollout of the intervention: (1) preimplementation (phase I) to establish baseline outcome rates; (2) design and administrative support (phase II) to conduct training and protocol design; and (3) implementation (phase III) of the code response team. An interrupted time-series analysis was used to compare trends between phases to evaluate the primary outcome of physical restraint orders occurring during the study period. RESULTS Within the 634,578 ED visits over a 5-year period, restraint use significantly declined sequentially over the 3 phases (1.1%, 0.9%, and 0.8%, absolute change -0.3% between phases I and III, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.4% to 0.3%), which corresponded to a 27.3% proportionate decrease in restraint rates between phases I and III. For the interrupted time-series analysis, there was a significantly decreasing slope in biweekly restraints in phase II compared to phase I (slope, -0.05 restraints per 1,000 ED visits per 2-week period, 95% CI -0.07 to -0.03), which was sustained in an incremental fashion in phase III (slope, -0.05, 95% CI -0.07 to -0.02). CONCLUSION With the implementation of a structured agitation code response team intervention combined with design and administrative support, a decreased rate of physical restraint use occurred over a 5-year period. Results suggest that investment in organizational change, along with interprofessional collaboration during the management of agitated patients in the ED, can lead to sustained reductions in the use of an invasive and potentially harmful measure on patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ambrose H. Wong
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jessica M. Ray
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Taylor Brashear
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Caitlin McVaney
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jeanie Haggan
- Adult Emergency Services, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mark Sevilla
- Adult Emergency Services, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Donald S. Costa
- Department of Protective Services, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Vivek Parwani
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Andrew Ulrich
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - James D. Dziura
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Steven L. Bernstein
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Arjun K. Venkatesh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lavergne MR, Loyal JP, Shirmaleki M, Kaoser R, Nicholls T, Schütz CG, Vaughan A, Samji H, Puyat JH, Kaulius M, Jones W, Small W. The relationship between outpatient service use and emergency department visits among people treated for mental and substance use disorders: analysis of population-based administrative data in British Columbia, Canada. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:477. [PMID: 35410219 PMCID: PMC8996395 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07759-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Research findings on the association between outpatient service use and emergency department (ED) visits for mental and substance use disorders (MSUDs) are mixed and may differ by disorder type. Methods We used population-based linked administrative data in British Columbia, Canada to examine associations between outpatient primary care and psychiatry service use and ED visits among people ages 15 and older, comparing across people treated for three disorder categories: common mental disorders (MDs) (depressive, anxiety, and/or post-traumatic stress disorders), serious MDs (schizophrenia spectrum and/or bipolar disorders), and substance use disorders (SUDs) in 2016/7. We used hurdle models to examine the association between outpatient service use and odds of any ED visit for MSUDs as well count of ED visits for MSUDs, stratified by cohort in 2017/8. Results Having had one or more MSUD-related primary care visit was associated with lower odds of any ED visit among people treated for common MDs and SUDs but not people treated for serious MDs. Continuity of primary care was associated with slightly lower ED use in all cohorts. One or more outpatient psychiatrist visits was associated with lower odds of ED visits among people treated for serious MDs and SUDs, but not among people with common MDs. Conclusion Findings highlight the importance of expanded access to outpatient specialist mental health services, particularly for people with serious MDs and SUDs, and collaborative models that can support primary care providers treating people with MSUDs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-07759-z.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Ruth Lavergne
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Primary Care Research Unit, Dalhousie University, 1465 Brenton Street, Suite 402, Halifax, NS, B3J 3T4, Canada.
| | - Jackson P Loyal
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mehdi Shirmaleki
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ridhwana Kaoser
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tonia Nicholls
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.,BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Christian G Schütz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Adam Vaughan
- School of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, Canada
| | - Hasina Samji
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Joseph H Puyat
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Megan Kaulius
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wayne Jones
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William Small
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.,BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Marzola E, Duranti E, De-Bacco C, Lupia E, Villari V, Abbate-Daga G. Psychiatric patients at the emergency department: factors associated with length of stay and likelihood of hospitalization. Intern Emerg Med 2022; 17:845-855. [PMID: 34379275 PMCID: PMC9018635 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-021-02820-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Emergency department (ED) care for psychiatric patients is currently understudied despite being highly utilized. Therefore, we aimed to analyze psychiatric patients' length of stay (LOS) and LOS-related factors at the ED and to investigate and quantify the likelihood of being hospitalized after an emergency psychiatric evaluation. Charts of 408 individuals who sought help at the ED were retrospectively assessed to identify patients' sociodemographic and clinical data upon ED admission and discharge. All interventions performed at the ED (e.g., medications, hospitalization, clinical advice at discharge) were collected as well. The LOS for psychiatric patients was relatively short (6.5 h), and substance/alcohol intoxication was the main factor impacting LOS. Upon ED arrival, hospitalized patients were mostly men, most often had a yellow/severe triage code, and most often had a positive history of psychiatric illness, psychotic symptoms, euphoric mood, or suicidal ideation. Manic symptoms and suicidal ideation were the conditions most frequently leading to hospitalization. Given the paucity of real-world data on psychiatric patients' LOS and outcomes in the ED context, our findings show that psychiatric patients are evaluated in a reasonable amount of time. Their hospitalization is mostly influenced by clinical conditions rather than predisposing (e.g., age) or system-related factors (e.g., mode of arrival).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Marzola
- grid.7605.40000 0001 2336 6580Eating Disorders Center, Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 11, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Elisa Duranti
- grid.7605.40000 0001 2336 6580Eating Disorders Center, Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 11, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Carlotta De-Bacco
- grid.7605.40000 0001 2336 6580Eating Disorders Center, Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 11, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Enrico Lupia
- grid.413005.30000 0004 1760 6850Division of Emergency Medicine and High Dependency Unit, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Molinette Hospital, Turin, Italy
- grid.7605.40000 0001 2336 6580Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Villari
- grid.432329.d0000 0004 1789 4477Neuroscience and Mental Health Department, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | - Giovanni Abbate-Daga
- grid.7605.40000 0001 2336 6580Eating Disorders Center, Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 11, 10126 Turin, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Shin HD, Cassidy C, Weeks LE, Campbell LA, Drake EK, Wong H, Donnelly L, Dorey R, Kang H, Curran JA. Interventions to change clinicians' behavior related to suicide-prevention care in the emergency department: a scoping review. JBI Evid Synth 2021; 20:788-846. [PMID: 34907133 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-21-00149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this scoping review was to explore, characterize, and map the literature on interventions and intervention components implemented to change emergency department clinicians' behavior related to suicide prevention using the Behaviour Change Wheel as a guiding theoretical framework. INTRODUCTION An emergency department is a critical place for suicide prevention, yet patients are often discharged without proper suicide risk assessments and/or referrals. In response, we must support emergency department clinicians' behavior change to follow evidence-based suicide prevention strategies. However, reviews to date have yet to systematically and theoretically examine interventions' functional characteristics and how they can influence emergency department clinicians' behaviors related to suicide-prevention care. INCLUSION CRITERIA This review considered interventions that targeted emergency department clinicians' behavior change related to suicide prevention. Behavior change referred to observable practice changes as well as proxy measures of behavior change, including changes in knowledge and attitude. METHODS This review followed JBI methodology for scoping reviews. Searches included PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase, and gray literature, including targeted Google searches for relevant organizations/websites, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, and Scopus conference papers (using a specific filter). This review did not apply any date limits, but our search was limited to the English language. Data extraction was undertaken using a charting table developed specifically for the review objective. Narrative descriptions of interventions were coded using the Behavior Change Wheel's intervention functions. Reported outcome measures were categorized. Findings are tabulated and synthesized narratively. RESULTS Forty-one studies were included from the database searches, representing a mixture of experimental (n = 2), quasi-experimental (n = 24), non-experimental (n = 12), qualitative (n = 1), and mixed methods (n = 2) approaches. An additional 29 citations were included from gray literature searches. One was a pilot mixed methods study, and the rest were interventions. In summary, this review included a total of 70 citations, describing 66 different interventions. Identified interventions comprised a wide range of Behaviour Change Wheel intervention functions to change clinicians' behavior: education (n = 48), training (n = 40), enablement (n = 36), persuasion (n = 21), environmental restructuring (n = 18), modeling (n = 7), and incentivisation (n = 2). Based on the Behaviour Change Wheel analysis, many interventions targeted more than one determinant of behavior change, often employing education and training to improve clinicians' knowledge and skills simultaneously. Among the 42 studies that reported outcome measures, effectiveness was measured at clinician (n = 38), patient (n = 4), and/or organization levels (n = 6). Few studies reported implementation outcomes, such as measures of reach (n = 4), adoption (n = 5), or fidelity (n = 1). There were no evaluation data reported on the interventions identified through Google searches. CONCLUSIONS Interventions included in this review were diverse and leveraged a range of mechanisms to change emergency department clinicians' behavior. However, most interventions relied solely on education and/or training to improve clinicians' knowledge and/or skills. Future research should consider diverse intervention functions to target both individual- and/or organization-level barriers for a given context. Secondly, the ultimate goal for changing emergency department clinicians' behavior is to improve patient health outcomes related to suicide-related thoughts and behaviors, but current research has most commonly evaluated clinicians' behavior in isolation of patient outcomes. Future studies should consider reporting patient-level outcomes alongside clinician-level outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hwayeon Danielle Shin
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada Aligning Health Needs and Evidence for Transformative Change (AH-NET-C): A JBI Centre of Excellence, Halifax, NS, Canada Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Casey M, Perera D, Enticott J, Vo H, Cubra S, Gravell A, Waerea M, Habib G. High utilisers of emergency departments: the profile and journey of patients with mental health issues. Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract 2021; 25:316-324. [PMID: 33945750 DOI: 10.1080/13651501.2021.1904998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Frequent presenters to the Emergency Department (ED) are known to have complex physical, behavioural and social needs. The study aimed to analyse the system's behaviour to generate new insights into ED high utilisers with complex mental health issues. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of the ED presentations of 200 high utilisers during a 12-month period was conducted. Analyses included psychiatric diagnoses, re-presentation rates, cost-benefit analysis of services and patient journey maps to illustrate the patient experience. RESULTS The profiled high utilisers represented nearly a quarter of total ED mental health presentations and were more likely to be single and unemployed. Diagnostically, Borderline Personality Disorder and Schizophrenia predominated. The re-presentation rate was high (70% within 28 days) and mental health attributable costs represented nearly three quarters of total health costs. CONCLUSION The study revealed a disintegrated service system for ED high utilisers with mental health issues, resulting in suboptimal clinical outcomes and substantial costs. To deliver value-based mental healthcare our lessons were; (1) stabilise the system's interaction with the patient by ensuring service responses are consistent with their enhanced management plan (2) all the system's parts channel the patient into various support services including psychological treatment with one therapist.KEY POINTSThe top 200 high utilisers presented to emergency 1928 times within 12 monthsThe re-presentation rate amongst the study's cohort was high (70% within 28 days)A high prevalence of BPD and schizophrenia was noted for this cohortThe study reveals a disintegrated service system for ED high utilisers, resulting in suboptimal clinical outcomes and substantial costs for the serviceA need for early identification, consistency in service responses and various support services to be provided by the hospital including psychological treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Casey
- Psychology and Specialist Services, Monash Health, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Dinali Perera
- Psychology and Specialist Services, Monash Health, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Joanne Enticott
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Hung Vo
- Operational Improvement, Ambulance Victoria, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stana Cubra
- Integration and Service Improvement, South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network, Heatherton, Australia
| | - Ashlee Gravell
- Psychology and Specialist Services, Monash Health, Clayton, Australia.,Faculty of Education, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Moana Waerea
- Psychology and Specialist Services, Monash Health, Clayton, Australia.,Faculty of Education, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - George Habib
- Wellbeing Services, Student and Scholarly Services, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shin HD, Cassidy C, Weeks LE, Campbell LA, Rothfus MA, Curran J. Interventions to change clinicians' behavior in relation to suicide prevention care in the emergency department: a scoping review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2021; 19:2014-2023. [PMID: 33795582 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-20-00307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review aims to explore, characterize, and map the literature on interventions implemented to change emergency department clinicians' behavior related to suicide prevention using the Behavior Change Wheel as a guiding theoretical framework. INTRODUCTION An emergency department is a critical place for suicide prevention, yet many patients who present with suicide-related thoughts and behaviors are discharged without proper assessment or appropriate treatment. Supporting clinicians (who provide direct clinical care, including nurses, physicians, and allied health professionals) to make the desired behavior change following evidence-based suicide prevention care is an essential step toward improving patient outcomes. However, reviews to date have yet to take a theoretical approach to investigate interventions implemented to change clinicians' behavior. INCLUSION CRITERIA This review will consider literature that includes interventions that target emergency department clinicians' behavior related to suicide prevention. Behavior change refers to observable practice changes as well as proxy measures of behavior change, including knowledge and attitudes. There are many ways in which an intervention can change clinicians' behavior (eg, education, altering service delivery). This review will include a wide range of interventions that target behavior change regardless of the type, but will exclude interventions that exclusively target patients. METHODS Multiple databases will be searched: PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Embase. We will also include gray literature, including Google search, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, and Scopus conference papers. Full texts of included studies will be reviewed, critically appraised, and extracted. Extracted data will be coded to identify intervention functions using the Behavior Change Wheel. Findings will be summarized in tables accompanied by narrative reports.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hwayeon Danielle Shin
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Aligning Health Needs and Evidence for Transformative Change (AH-NET-C): A JBI Centre of Excellence, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Christine Cassidy
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Aligning Health Needs and Evidence for Transformative Change (AH-NET-C): A JBI Centre of Excellence, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Lori E Weeks
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Aligning Health Needs and Evidence for Transformative Change (AH-NET-C): A JBI Centre of Excellence, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Leslie Anne Campbell
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Melissa A Rothfus
- W.K. Kellogg Health Sciences Library, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Janet Curran
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,Aligning Health Needs and Evidence for Transformative Change (AH-NET-C): A JBI Centre of Excellence, Halifax, NS, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Shin HD, Price S, Aston M. A poststructural analysis: Current practices for suicide prevention by nurses in the emergency department and areas of improvement. J Clin Nurs 2020; 30:287-297. [PMID: 32956549 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To use a poststructuralist framework to critique historical, social and institutional constructions of emergency nursing and examine conflicting discourses surrounding suicide prevention. The aim is to also demonstrate practical guidance for enhancing emergency nursing practice and research with regard to suicide prevention. BACKGROUND Emergency departments have been historically constructed as places for treating life-threatening physical crises, thereby constructing other "nonurgent" health needs as less of a priority. Physical needs take priority over psychological needs, such as suicide-related thoughts and behaviours, negatively impacting the quality of care that certain groups of patients receive. DESIGN A theoretical analysis of the published literature on the topic of emergency nursing and suicide prevention was conducted and analysed using a poststructuralist framework. METHODS Relevant literature on the topic of emergency nursing related to suicide prevention was analysed for a poststructuralist construct of power, language, subjectivity and discourse. Implications to practice and research were identified, as well as expanding emergency nursing using a poststructuralist framework. SQUIRE guidelines were used (see Supporting Information). DISCUSSION The emergency department is a critical point of intervention for patients with urgent and life-threatening needs. However, the biomedical model and historical, social, and institutional expectations that influence emergency nurses' beliefs and values do not effectively respond to the needs of suicidal patients. One step to address this issue is to deconstruct the current understanding of emergency nursing as a treatment for only life-threatening physical crises in order to become inclusive of psychological crises such as suicide-related thoughts and behaviours. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE How a poststructural framework can be used to expand emergency care is discussed. Examples include empowering nurses to challenge the "taken-for-granted" emergency nursing and recognizing the health needs that fall outside of the dominant discourse of emergency care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sheri Price
- Dalhousie University School of Nursing, Halifax, NS, Canada.,IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Megan Aston
- Dalhousie University School of Nursing, Halifax, NS, Canada.,IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| |
Collapse
|