Congress debate can get lost in translation

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Emergency Medicine
• Mental Health Care

Background:

• Royal College of Nursing (RCN) congress resolutions typically generate limited debate.
• The RCN Emergency Care Association (ECA) and RCN mental health forum collaborated on a recent motion.
• This collaboration addresses the role of emergency departments in mental health crises.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a re-evaluation of emergency departments' function as designated safe places.
• To challenge the current model of care for individuals experiencing mental health crises within emergency settings.

Main Methods:

• A motion was put forward by the RCN Emergency Care Association (ECA) and RCN mental health forum.
• The motion suggested that emergency departments (EDs) cease being designated safe havens for mental health crises.

Main Results:

• The motion was presented to the RCN congress.
• The RCN congress's response and the debate generated by the motion are pending.

Conclusions:

• Emergency departments may not be the optimal setting for individuals in acute mental health distress.
• Further discussion is needed regarding alternative safe spaces for mental health emergencies.