Evaluating Safety Concerns for Pediatric Mental and Behavioral Health Patients and Providers in the Emergency Department: A Systems Perspective.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine key issues related to the safety of pediatric mental and behavioral (MBH) patients in the emergency department (ED), as well as related provider safety issues from a systems perspective.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 55 staff members from 4 ED units in rural and urban hospitals. Utilizing the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety framework, interviews were coded in Atlas.ti for physical environment, tasks, roles, technology, organization, and safety.

Results

Self-harm, harm to others, and elopement were the frequently mentioned safety concerns. The type of ED (general adult, non-MBH unit) and presence of ligatures in patient care areas increased risks to patient safety. ED layou

SUBMITTER: Joseph A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12453101 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature