Name of the Procedure:

Crisis Intervention Mental Health Services, per diem (S9485)

Common name(s): Crisis intervention, emergency mental health services

Technical or medical terms: Psychiatric crisis intervention, acute mental health intervention

Summary

Crisis intervention mental health services provide immediate, intensive support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. This service aims to stabilize the person and prevent potential harm to themselves or others.

Purpose

Medical Conditions or Problems:

• Acute psychiatric episodes
• Severe emotional distress
• Suicidal ideation or attempts
• Severe anxiety or panic attacks
• Acute grief or trauma reactions

Goals or Expected Outcomes:

• Stabilize the immediate crisis
• Ensure the safety of the individual and others
• Provide short-term coping strategies
• Facilitate access to ongoing mental health care

Indications

Symptoms or Conditions:

• Sudden, severe deterioration of mental health
• Inability to function safely in daily life
• Risk of self-harm or harming others
• Extreme emotional distress

Patient Criteria:

• Individuals experiencing an acute psychological crisis
• Patients who cannot wait for a regular psychiatric appointment
• Those needing urgent, intensive support

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments needed
• Patients should provide information on current medications and mental health history

Diagnostic Tests or Assessments:

• Initial mental health evaluation
• Risk assessment for self-harm or harm to others

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Assessment:
   • Comprehensive mental health evaluation by a clinician.
   • Assessment of immediate risk and safety needs.
2. Stabilization:
   • De-escalation techniques.
   • Providing a safe environment.
3. Intervention:
   • Short-term therapeutic interventions.
   • Medication management, if necessary.
4. Disposition:
   • Developing a safety plan.
   • Referral to follow-up care and community resources.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used:

• Confidential consultation spaces
• Risk assessment tools
• Communication devices for coordination with other health services

Anesthesia or Sedation Details:

• Generally, no anesthesia or sedation is used

Duration

Typically lasts for a single day (per diem), sessions can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on the severity of the crisis.

Setting

• Hospital emergency department
• Outpatient mental health clinic
• Specialty crisis intervention unit
• Telehealth services in some cases

Personnel

• Licensed mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers)
• Nurses trained in mental health care
• Crisis intervention specialists

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Emotional stress following intervention
• Potential need for hospitalization if the crisis is severe

Rare Risks:

• Adverse reactions to any administered medications
• Possible exacerbation of symptoms if not adequately managed

Management of Complications:

• Close follow-up with mental health professionals
• Immediate reassessment if symptoms worsen

Benefits

• Rapid stabilization of crisis symptoms
• Increased safety for the individual and others
• Immediate psychological support
• Improved coordination for long-term mental health care

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Follow-up appointments with mental health providers
• Adherence to any prescribed medications or therapies

Expected Recovery Time:

• Immediate safety and stabilization, with continued improvement over days to weeks.

Restrictions or Follow-Up Appointments:

• Limited restrictions; emphasis on follow-up care
• Scheduled follow-up with mental health services within 1-2 weeks

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Scheduled outpatient therapy sessions
• Inpatient psychiatric hospitalization for severe cases
• Remote mental health services (teletherapy)

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Outpatient therapy is less intensive but may lack immediate support.
• Inpatient hospitalization provides comprehensive care but may be more restrictive.
• Remote services offer convenience but might not address critical needs effectively.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Individuals might feel distressed but safe and supported.
• Emotional release and stabilization with professional help.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• Emotional support from trained professionals.
• Safe and calming environment to mitigate stress and anxiety.