This study compared the rates of hospitalization from two psychiatric
emergency services which were similar except that one service had an
extended evaluation unit, or holding area, allowing up to 24 hours of
evaluation. The rate of hospitalization from the service with the extended
evaluation unit was 36%; the rate from the other service was 52%. The
difference in admission rates was related to the availability of the
extended evaluation unit, which made it possible for many patients to avoid
rather than merely postpone admission to the hospital. Clinical
determinants of admission and of successful treatment in the unit were also
reviewed.
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