ED Training Framework for Pediatric Behavioral Health Crises

Coordinating Care and Building Responsive ED Systems

Follow these steps as you engage with ED partners to guide conversations and deepen understanding of their current practices. These steps serve as an excellent starting point to gain a better understanding of the current infrastructure and the processes that are already in place, as well as those that still need to be developed.

Training Best Practices

  • All ED Staff, including physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, social workers, technicians, registration staff, and security personnel, should receive foundational training.
  • Tailor content to each team member’s scope (e.g., screening, management, or triage vs long-term care)

  • ASQ Toolkit, C-SSRS, Zero Suicide
  • De-escalation: CPI, Handle With Care
  • Trauma-Informed Care (SAMHSA, NCTSN)
  • Mental Health First Aid (Youth)
  • Scenario-based training and simulation drills
  • Interdisciplinary case reviews and debriefs

  • Legal/ethical training (e.g., involuntary holds, consent)
  • Awareness of the needs of neurodivergent and various populations.
  • Annual refreshers
  • Training audits and incident-informed updates
  • Competency tracking for all staff

PMHCA Checklist: Training Evaluation

Review this checklist to ensure your ED training program covers all essential components for pediatric mental and behavioral health emergencies.

Download Checklist
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