Emergency Physicians Monthly - June 1, 2016 - By Michael Silverman
"Conclusion
The ED is not a shelter, and from time to time, patients will refuse to leave the ED. Before calling security or the police, be very confident of your diagnosis. This involves a thorough work up and if available, collaboration with family and case management. Rarely does a patient’s refusal to leave require the police or hospital security to physically remove them. In these cases, take the extra few minutes to thoroughly review the care provided, other social issues that may be impacting the disposition, the documentation in the medical record with a section for your own medical decision making, and consider any other options that may exist prior to the police being involved."