Before You Leave the Hospital

You have the right to ask the doctor or another health care worker for written information about your child’s diagnosis and what to do next. You will be handed after-care instructions, they should be explained to you and you can ask questions.

Release from the Emergency Room

Based on your youth’s evaluation, the medical team will determine the level of care needed and next steps. Your youth may be sent home, or referred to a community-based program for longer-term support or moved to an inpatient or residential setting.

You have the right to:

  • Ask for written information about your youth’s diagnosis and next steps. 
  • Ask for a second opinion.
  • Read the hospital’s discharge or release policies.

You are allowed to pause, ask questions, and take in information at your own pace.

  • The emergency room can feel overwhelming, and you may hear a lot of new information.
  • It is okay to ask questions if you do not understand or if something does not feel right.

Questions to Ask the Emergency Room Staff:

  1. When and who will a psychiatrist or behavioral health professional complete a mental health assessment?
  2. Can I or has my youth signed a release of information form so providers can talk with others, such as primary care doctor, therapist, or school?
  3. Has a full suicide risk assessment been completed? What were the results?
  4. What possible diagnoses are being considered, and what treatment options are available?
  5. What type of care is needed next?
  6. Will my youth be admitted to a hospital, or residential care?
  7. Will my youth need medication? How long will they need to take it?
  8. Should I carry naloxone in a case of an opioid overdose? How do I use it, and where can I get it?
  9. What can I do to help keep my youth safe? What warning signs should I watch for? 
  10. What should I do, who should I call, if another crisis happens or if I feel one is building?
  11. How might I talk with my youth moving forward? Are there questions I should or should not ask?
  12. What supports are available while we wait for treatment or services?

Going Home

If your youth is going home, you should receive a written plan that includes after-care, safety steps, and how to set up follow-up services.

This will include:

  • A safety plan created with the person who completed the mental health assessment, your youth, and you or another caregiver. 
  • Safety precautions, including how to lock up, remove, or make safe anything that could be used in a suicide attempt. This includes firearms, medications, alcohol, drugs, ropes, chemicals, and sharp objects.
  • Information on how to care for your youth after a suicide attempt or mental health crisis.
  • A follow-up appointment scheduled within the next week, if possible. This may be with a therapist, doctor, or community-based team.
  • Prescriptions for any medications, if needed. Try to fill the first prescription before leaving the hospital or as soon as possible. Ask about side effects and what needs immediate attention.
  • Connections to peer support or other community-based support, such as a Family Support Specialist for you or a Youth Support Specialist for your youth. Family Support Specialists are parents or caregivers who have lived experience raising a child with behavioral health challenges. They are trained and certified to help other families understand systems, find resources, and speak up for themselves. In some areas, Youth Support Specialist are also available. They are trained young adults with lived experience who support youth through recovery. Ask your provider or a Family Support Specialist how to connect with one.

Be Sure You Can Answer These Questions Before Leaving

  1. How should I act with my youth once we are home?
  2. What warning signs should I watch for?
  3. What should I do if I think my youth is becoming unsafe?
  4. What is the plan if my youth feels unsafe again?
  5. Who does my youth want involved in next steps?

SEE THE SAFETY PLAN SECTION FOR MORE INFORMATION 

If you say you cannot take your youth home because of safety concerns, Child Protective Services (CPS) may be contacted. If this happens, do your best to stay calm.

 

CPS does not want to take custody of a youth when there is someone who can safely care for them. If you feel your concerns are not being heard:

  • Ask for a social worker or the hospital patient advocate.
  • Call the Oregon Health Authority ombuds team as soon as possible (1-877-642-0450) – This is a message line only.
  • File a complaint that clearly explains your concerns.
  • Call the Reach Out Oregon Parent Warmline (1-833-732-2467), Monday through Friday from 10am to 4pm and ask the Family Support Specialist to help you think through next steps.