Exploring Admission Decisions in Psychiatrists in Emergency Services: A Vignette-based Qualitative Study

Decision-making regarding inpatient hospitalization in the emergency care setting is complex and depends on several factors that have been poorly studied. A better understanding of the impact of subjective and objective factors on decision-making is a clear clinical need. This article explored the factors influencing psychiatrists' decision-making regarding emergency room admission across various situations.

This study used an exploratory qualitative research design. Focus group discussions, centered on case vignettes, were held with psychiatry trainees and licensed psychiatrists. These were audio-recorded with the participants' permission, transcribed, coded, and later analyzed using thematic analysis.

Five themes emerged (prioritizing patient safety by risk assessment, institution-related factors, resource constraints, clinician-related factors, and the role of family). These themes highlighted the relevant situational factors that influence decision-making regarding hospitalization, in addition to the presence of clinical risk.

Indian psychiatrists do not base decisions regarding admissions to the emergency room on clinical assessments alone. They are cognizant of various contextual, social, and cultural factors as they navigate competing ethical imperatives.