Mental health emergencies require urgent and appropriate attention from emergency room staff. The way healthcare providers handle psychiatric crises can greatly impact a patient’s recovery and overall well-being.
Recent studies show that mental health-related ER visits have increased. However, many hospitals remain underprepared to handle these cases properly. You need to recognize the signs of mishandled care to protect your rights and ensure you receive the treatment you deserve.
Signs that your mental health crisis may have been mishandled
A properly handled mental health emergency should include thorough evaluation, appropriate care and clear communication. Watch for these warning signs:
- Rushed discharge: The staff sends you home without a clear safety plan or follow-up care instructions
- Inadequate assessment: No one asks about your mental health history, current medications or recent life events
- Missing documentation: You receive incomplete or incorrect paperwork about your visit and treatment
- Poor communication: Staff fails to contact your regular mental health provider or family members
- Improper restraint use: Physical restraints are used without proper documentation or explanation
- Ignored symptoms: Staff dismisses or minimizes your symptoms without proper evaluation
When medical staff fails to meet these standard care requirements, you need to take specific actions to protect your rights and health.
Steps to take if you experience inadequate care
Documenting evidence of inadequate care is crucial for both your medical wellbeing and legal protection. If you notice any red flags during or after your ER visit, take these important steps:
- Request your complete medical records immediately
- Document all interactions with medical staff
- Keep a detailed timeline of events
- Take photos of any visible injuries
- Save all hospital paperwork and discharge instructions
- Contact your regular mental health provider
- Seek a second medical opinion
Remember that in New York, you have two and a half years from the date of the incident to take legal action for medical malpractice.
Medical facilities must provide the right care for mental health emergencies according to established standards. You deserve proper treatment and attention during a psychiatric crisis. You can hold healthcare providers responsible for negligence if they fail to meet these standards.