Strengthening Pediatric Mental Health Onboarding

PMHCAs can use these onboarding materials to help ED teams build foundational knowledge and confidence when caring for children and adolescents experiencing a mental or behavioral health crisis. The resources focus on trauma-informed communication, safety awareness, and practical guidance for initial response, ensuring staff are prepared from the start.

How to Use:

• Share orientation materials that outline best practices for pediatric behavioral and mental health care
• Incorporate trauma-informed care principles into onboarding sessions
• Conduct role-based training for nurses, providers, and security personnel
• Use quick-reference guides to reinforce consistent assessment and de-escalation techniques

How PMHCA Can Assist:

• Co-facilitate ED staff onboarding or refresher sessions
• Offer tailored presentations on pediatric mental health basics
• Provide sample scripts and safety checklists for new staff
• Recommend additional training resources for ongoing learning

PMHCA Checklist: Pediatric Mental Health Onboarding Essentials

Use this checklist to guide the onboarding experience of new ED staff engaging with pediatric mental health care. Check off each item as it’s completed or integrated into your department’s orientation.