HEADS-ED Screening Tool

• 2011

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About

The HEADS-ED is a tool used to quickly check mental health in kids at the emergency room. It describes different areas like home life, school, friends, substance use, suicidal thoughts, emotions, and available help. Each area is scored from 0 to 2 based on how much action is needed. A total score over 8 with a high suicidality score means a child might need special mental health care. The tool helps decide if more help is needed but doesn't replace professional judgment. More details can be found on their website or through linked resources.

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Tags

Focus Area: Everyday Emergency

Audiences: Behavioral Health Professionals; EMS Clinicians; Nurses; Physicians

Emergency Management Stage: Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Mass Screening; Mental Health; Pediatrics; Psychological Tests; Suicide Prevention; Substance-Related Disorders; Emergency Service, Hospital; Risk Assessment

Institutions: Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario

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Tips for Healthcare Professionals: Coping with Stress and Compassion Fatigue 2024 · Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) ENA Providing a Safe Environment for Pediatric Mental Health Patients in the ED 2021 · Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) Disaster Mental Health Response for Children (3rd ed.) 2018 · Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Illinois EMS for Children (EMSC)

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The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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