Psychiatric Inpatient Hospitalization

The inpatient program at Saint Luke's Hospital Crittenton Children's Center helps children experiencing an immediate mental health crisis. The inpatient hospitalization team works to stabilize the child’s symptoms so they can safely return home.

At Crittenton, we use evidence-based therapy, which means therapies that have been rigorously tested and proven effective. Our commitment to evidence-based practices is part of why Crittenton is highly regarded by former patients, families, and other medical providers.

When Hospitalization May Be Appropriate

For behavioral health concerns, it’s important to provide the appropriate level of care for the current symptoms a child is experiencing. Hospitalization should be reserved for when, in the previous 24 hours, there are safety concerns for serious injury to self or others, including risk of death.

  • Frequent and/or intense thoughts, actions, or intentions to end their life whether or not it's likely to result in death.
  • Anxiety/OCD symptoms that interfere with the child and/or family’s daily activities in a number of settings.
    • Note: Anxiety or a history of anxiety disorder is not criteria for an acute hospitalization unless there are other safety concerns as well.
  • Hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t there, difficulties with clear thoughts (ex. Thinking others are out to get them, believing they have special powers, or odd or strange thoughts) that are significantly disruptive to the daily life.
  • Aggressive behavior to others resulting in need for medical care.

Referral Process

If the child is experiencing any of the above conditions, please call our main line at 816-765-6600 and ask for Intake. 

You will be connected to an intake specialist. Please be prepared to answer questions regarding any immediate safety concerns, medical issues, or any history of sexually inappropriate behavior.

If the safety issues require immediate police or medical intervention, you will be asked to hang up and dial 911. First responders will take the child to an emergency room for medical clearance and assessment. The hospital will help facilitate a transfer to an inpatient facility if needed (you can request Crittenton).

If the child appears to need inpatient hospitalization during the screening call and Crittenton has capacity and capability to admit them, we will schedule a same-day appointment for a level-of-care assessment with a licensed clinician.

Please allow two hours for the assessment. After the assessment, the clinician will consult with a medical provider who will recommend next steps including but not limited to an inpatient admission, follow-up with outpatient providers, or other resources.

If the child is not admitted to the hospital following the assessment, the clinician will work with the family to create a safety plan and provide additional resources as recommended.

FAQ

What is the average length of stay for inpatients?

5-7 days

What should I bring?
  • Three changes of clothes
  • A set of pajamas
  • Socks and underwear
  • Parents will need to provide any medication in the original bottle or a medication list from a medical provider
  • No belts, cords, or drawstrings
  • Shoes will be locked in a locker and the child will be given slippers to wear during their stay
  • We will supply hygiene products and bedding
What happens during this stay?

The child is assigned a therapist and medical provider (psychiatrist or APRN) who will meet with them regularly to provide individual therapy, family therapy, and medication management.

The child will receive expressive therapy and attend psychotherapy groups.

Nursing staff is on-site 24 hours a day to attend to medical needs and provide support and care for mental health needs.

Are visits or calls allowed?

Yes, visits must be scheduled and are designated for the parent(s) or guardian only. Parents or guardians will be given a guide during admission on how to schedule an in-person visit and recommended calling times.

If unable to visit in person, you may arrange a video visit with staff on the child’s unit or call them on the phone.