Involuntary Civil Commitment of Minors

Although NPs and other licensed providers generally retain a comprehensive grasp of the best health care practices for their respective professions, these competencies are often stretched when treating minors with underlying mental illnesses. NPs and all nurses practicing in settings where they are likely to encounter pediatric patients need to be concretely prepared to respond to youth in psychiatric crisis necessitating involuntary commitment. This article reviews the history of involuntary psychiatric commitment of minors and suggests practical approaches to the management of such situations.