Discharge of the emergency patient with risk factors for suicide: Psychiatric and legal perspectives. In: Zun L.S., Nordstrom K., Wilson M.P. (eds) Behavioral Emergencies for Healthcare Providers

Over the last 30 years, the psychiatric approach to individuals in the emergency setting with suicidal ideation and risk factors for suicide has undergone a paradigm shift, from one favoring triage and hospitalization to one favoring treatment and hospital diversion. In the best hands, the goal has always been to collaborate with the patient in resolving the crisis and selecting the most appropriate level of care. But this new emphasis has taken over, evolving from a best practice into the standard of care.