BEST PRACTICES FOR MANAGING MENTAL HEALTH CRISES IN PREHOSPITAL SETTINGS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

This literature review examines best practices for managing mental health crises in prehospital settings, highlighting the increasing prevalence and complexity of such emergencies. Mental health crises, often presenting as acute behavioral disturbances, require timely and effective interventions by emergency medical services (EMS). The review identifies significant training gaps among EMS personnel, who frequently report feeling unprepared to manage psychiatric conditions. A systematic approach was employed to synthesize findings from 40 studies, emphasizing the need for standardized interventions, specialized training, and collaborative models of care. Key findings suggest that community mental health centers can serve as effective alternative destinations for patients, reducing pressure on emergency departments and improving patient outcomes. Furthermore, integrated approaches, including the involvement of psychiatric specialists and telehealth consultations, are advocated to enhance the quality of care. Ethical considerations in decision-making processes for EMS personnel are also discussed, underscoring the importance of developing frameworks that support ethical practices. This review provides valuable insights to inform future research and practice, ultimately aiming to improve the management of mental health crises in prehospital environments. Keywords: Mental health crises, Emergency medical services, Prehospital care, Training and interventions, Ethical decision-making