Janelle, a 22-year-old grad student, has come to the emergency department of a community hospital with her family. She is refusing to sign admission forms and will not talk to the doctor on call. The family states that Janelle has been scratching herself with her fingernails. For the last week she has been drinking more than usual and refusing to leave her apartment or eat anything. She has given several of her things away to her roommates. They fear she is suicidal and are asking that she be admitted to the hospital for her safety. Janelle can be admitted against her will based on what criteria?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Janelle can be admitted against her will if she is exhibiting behavior that indicates she is a danger to herself. In this case, her family is concerned about her suicidal ideation and self-harm behavior, and therefore, there is a high risk for Janelle to harm herself if she is not admitted to the hospital. It is important to prioritize her safety and provide necessary treatment and intervention. The other options of family support, early intervention, and Janelle's realization are important, but they are not the criteria for involuntary admission.

Janelle, a 22-Year-Old Grad Student, Has Come to the Emergency