Using Hospital Incident Command Systems to Respond to the Pediatric Mental and Behavioral Health Crisis of the COVID-19 Pandemic

• 2023

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• Laura Westley; Renee Manworren; Debrea Griffith; Jennifer Hoffmann; Aron Janssen; Susan Routburg
PMID: 36692999DOI: 10.1097/NNA.0000000000001254

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This article discusses how hospital incident command systems (HICS) were implemented to expand mental and behavioral healthcare (MBHC) services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data on patient census, nurse vacancies, staff injuries, and staff perceptions were analyzed to quantify issues and track progress toward HICS goals. Data, environment of care, staffing, staff support, staff education, and communication resources were developed. After HICS implementation, 84% of nurses reported confidence in providing care to youth with acute MBHC needs. Nurse leaders should consider HICS for addressing other crises.

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Tags

Focus Areas: Everyday Emergency; Infectious Disease; Mental Health

Audiences: Behavioral Health Professionals; Emergency Managers

Emergency Management Stage: Response

Keywords: Hospitals; Hospitals, Pediatric; Mental Health; Pandemics; COVID-19

Institutions: Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital; Northwestern University

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