PIRC–What to Expect in the Emergency Department

Call the PIRC at 205-638-PIRC (7472) for mental health resources in your community.

Registration staff will ask for the reason you have come to the emergency room, as well as other basic information.
A nurse will assess the patient’s needs and urgency of treatment.

The patient and caregiver will move to a secured and safe treatment room in the emergency room.
A Clinical Associate (CA) will remove all patient belongings and place in a locker for safety.
Staff will provide patient with paper scrubs to change into.
At least one family member or caregiver is required to stay with the patient at all times.
No electronics or personal items are allowed in the room for safety reasons. Personal belongings will be secured in a locker. Phones are available for caregivers to use.
A nurse and/or a CA will check vital signs and the nurse may give medication as needed.

The patient will be assessed by an Attending Physician who determine if medically stable.
If cleared medically, the patient is seen by the mental health team.

An intake assessment will be conducted by a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Nurse Practitioner or doctor, all under the care of the Attending Psychiatrist. The assessment includes reasons for the emergency room visit, a history of mental health concerns past or present, any previous treatment, family history and a mental status exam.
An evaluation may be conducted by the Attending Psychiatrist.

The mental health team will consult with the Attending Psychiatrist, Attending Physician, and family/caregiver to determine the best treatment for the patient.
Admission to Children’s or transfer to another facility will be coordinated by a staff member.
If the patient is not admitted for care, a team member will refer the patient back to their mental health provider or give a list of outpatient providers for follow-up.

Call the PIRC at 205-638-PIRC (7472) for mental health resources in your community.