The Impact of Constant Observation in Pediatric Mental Health Emergencies: Perspectives from Emergency Department Staff

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23794925.2025.2502918 Study Identifies Suggestions To Improve Care for Children in Mental Health Emergencies Constant observation of children admitted to the ED with serious mental health issues is a critical but challenging component to ensuring safer care, according to an AHRQ-funded study. While continuous observation helps prevent harm, such as self-injury, some patients feel anxious or angry about being watched all the time. In addition, staff conducting constant observation can be exposed to aggressive or unpredictable behavior. Through interviews with 55 members of ED teams, including patient observers, researchers examined how constant observation affects care, staff, and workflow. The study includes recommendations, including better ED design, de-escalation training, and therapeutic engagement to improve safety and care for children experiencing mental health emergencies. Access the abstract in Evidence-Based Practice in Child and Adolescent Mental Health.