Emergency Mental Health: Assessment and Treatment (HS - Webb - 20183)

Course overview

Emergency Mental Health Mental health emergencies occur daily. They present themselves in emergency rooms nationwide. They present themselves in schools, primary care offices, jails, the workplace, churches, and most anywhere. The majority of people who commit suicide see their primary care physician during the month prior to their death; however, the symptoms of the suicidal patient are often overlooked. Many have spoken with pastors, counselors, or others about their despair. Learning to assess and appropriately intervene can often prevent the patient from attempting suicide. School counselors, managers, and others often encounter the chemically dependent or violent individual. Law enforcement personnel often encounter persons with bizarre behavior and those under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Learning to recognize the symptoms of mental health emergencies and how to address them is often vital to the safety of the individual and others. In this practical and timely recording, learn how to quickly assess and triage mental health emergencies. Information will be provided on performing suicide and homicide risk assessments, mental status examinations, and evaluation of the need for detoxification. Mr. Webb will discuss recognizing likely diagnoses based on knowledge of the patient's psychotropic medications. Other topics will include the practitioner's liability regarding emergency mental health, including the practitioner's duty to warn and protect per the Tarasoff court case. The value of "contracts for safety" will also be discussed. Involuntary commitment, inpatient, and outpatient treatment criteria will be discussed in relation to both your state's statutes and third party payment.