A Literature Review: Psychiatric Boarding

This literature review explores the relevant literature on several key questions regarding boarding of psychiatric patients in the emergency department (ED). Is psychiatric boarding a problem? What are the reasons for boarding psychiatric patients? What kind of care is received while patients are boarded? Our review of the literature will delve into these questions as well as the impact of psychiatric patient boarding on others, including the financial impact. The authors discuss how the decisions of key players including ED staff, law enforcement, insurance companies and hospitals have a significant impact on the ED boarding process for psychiatric patients. Where possible, the authors provide data to support key findings. Finally, the authors highlight best practices and solutions regarding ED psychiatric boarding. [30 PDF pages]