Rapid Pediatric Triage and Screening

PMHCAs can share these evidence-based screening and triage tools with ED teams to help identify pediatric mental and behavioral health needs quickly and accurately. These resources are designed to support early recognition of red flags, align triage decisions with best practices, and ensure that every child receives the right level of care at the right time.

How to Use:

• Use brief screeners to identify red flags in intake (e.g., suicidal ideation, trauma exposure)
  • Evaluation and Triage card: Safe-T Card. (SMA) 09-4432. CMHS-NSP-0193
  • ENA: Emergency Severity Index (ESI): A triage tool for ED care implementation handbook
  • Pediatric Suicidal Ideation, Behavior, and Self-Harm Screening Tools
  • NIMH Ask Suicide-Screening Questions (ASQ) Brief Suicide Safety Assessment Resources
  • ASQ Toolkit
  • ASQ- Suicide Risk Screener
  • BSSA- Assessment tool to use if following ASQ  
  • CSSRS Toolkit
  • CSSRS Suicide Risk Screener
  • CSSRS Suicide Risk Screener for ages 6 to 11 or IDD
  • SAFE-T- assessment to use after a moderate or high risk score on CSSRS
• Follow referral workflow charts based on level of risk and patient age
• Integrate EMR prompts and triage scripts into nursing and provider workflows
• Reinforce action steps through huddles or triage station documentation

How PMHCA Can Assist:

• Recommend evidence-based screening tools
• Review existing processes and tailor workflows to local resources
• Support EMR integration and provide templated documentation prompts
• Deliver training on interpreting screening results and next steps

PMHCA Checklist: Rapid Triage and Risk Assessment Essentials

Use this checklist with your ED to evaluate whether they have the tools, workflows, and training needed to confidently and consistently screen pediatric patients.