Pediatric Behavioral Health Emergencies-Pediatric Behavioral Health Emergencies

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Kathy Jordan, a clinical associate professor and nurse practitioner specializing in pediatric emergency behavioral health, discusses the growing challenges in managing pediatric behavioral health emergencies in emergency departments (EDs). She highlights the increasing volume of children with behavioral disorders, such as ADHD, autism, mood disorders, and suicidal ideation, exacerbated by a lack of inpatient and outpatient resources, overcrowded EDs, and insufficient staff training. Jordan emphasizes the importance of differentiating true psychiatric emergencies from medical conditions and family crises, prioritizing safety, and adopting trauma-informed, compassionate care tailored to developmental needs. She outlines assessment tools like HEADS-ED and safety protocols, discusses management of agitation—including verbal de-escalation, chemical sedation, and as last resort, restraints—and the necessity of recognizing conditions like serotonin syndrome. Special attention is given to children with autism spectrum disorder, who face sensory and communication challenges in chaotic ED environments. The impact of COVID-19 on pediatric mental health is also addressed, noting increased anxiety, depression, social isolation, and behavioral problems. Jordan advocates for empathetic engagement, minimizing distress, supporting families, and ensuring trust to improve outcomes. She concludes by reminding healthcare providers to care for themselves amid the stresses of treating vulnerable pediatric patients during a national mental health crisis.

Keywords

pediatric behavioral health

emergency departments

ADHD

autism spectrum disorder

psychiatric emergencies

trauma-informed care

HEADS-ED assessment

agitation management

COVID-19 mental health impact