I work on an inpatient psych floor at a hospital. This is basically how it goes in my state. When you come in we will take you back to a room in the ER ask basic medical questions, possibly run some labs, then a psych nurse will come down and evaluate you. Then at this point the on call psychiatrist will consult with the ER physician to make sure you are medically stable and if you meet criteria for admission you will then be asked to sign some consent forms.

At this point we will begin trying to find a bed for you starting at ground zero be the hospital you are at and then moving outwards until one is found. However be aware of once you start this process and you meet admission criteria there is no going back. During this process we have to write affidavits to hold you if try to leave because you are suicidal.

At my hospital once you arrive on my floor I have to do a skin assessment; take your vitals; listen to your heart, lungs, and bowel sounds; go over paperwork with you and ask you whole bunch of intake questions. Overall it is a pretty laid back and easy process. If you ever feel that you need these services do seek them out!