Patients & Families
A practical guide to assessment, admission and preparing for inpatient care.
Admission to a mental-health hospital is considered after clinical assessment. The care team will discuss why admission may be helpful, the available options and what the patient and family can expect.
Admission is based on individual clinical need
Attending the hospital does not automatically lead to admission. A clinician assesses the person’s symptoms, physical health, safety, functioning, support system and the level of care required. Where outpatient care is suitable, it may be recommended instead.
When might inpatient care be considered?
Inpatient care may be considered when closer observation, structured treatment or a protected therapeutic environment is clinically necessary. Examples can include severe symptoms, significant safety concerns, major difficulty caring for oneself, complex medication changes, substance-related complications or inadequate support for safe treatment at home. The decision remains individual and assessment-led.
The admission process
Clinical assessment
A clinician reviews the current concern, health history, medicines, safety, substance use, daily functioning and available family or social support.
Recommendation and explanation
The team explains the recommended level of care, likely goals of admission, available accommodation and important practical considerations.
Consent and documentation
Required consent, identity, clinical and financial documentation are completed in accordance with the patient’s circumstances and applicable law.
Orientation and care plan
The patient and family are introduced to the unit, relevant routines and the initial treatment plan. The plan is reviewed as assessment continues.
What to bring
Documents
Photo identification, address details, relevant insurance or payment documents, and contact details of the primary family representative.
Clinical records
Recent prescriptions, discharge summaries, investigation reports, allergy information and records of previous medical or psychiatric treatment.
Medicines
Bring all current medicines in their original packaging where possible. Hand them to the clinical team; do not keep or take medicines independently during admission unless instructed.
Personal items
Comfortable clothing and basic toiletries in modest quantities. Label belongings when possible and confirm permitted items with the hospital before arrival.
Items that may be restricted
For safety, the hospital may restrict sharp objects, glass items, lighters, matches, intoxicating substances, unapproved medicines, cords or other items that could create risk. Rules for mobile phones, chargers, money, valuables, outside food and electrical appliances may vary by unit and clinical need. Please ask the receiving team before bringing them.
Medicines and physical-health needs
Tell the team about allergies, diabetes, epilepsy, pregnancy, recent surgery, infections, mobility needs and other medical conditions. During admission, medicines are prescribed and administered under the treating team’s supervision. Some physical-health needs may require additional assessment, investigation, specialist input or transfer to an appropriate medical facility.
Consent, rights and family involvement
Admission and treatment decisions should follow applicable law, clinical assessment and the patient’s capacity and circumstances. The team will explain relevant care, seek consent where required, respect privacy and dignity, and involve the nominated representative or family when appropriate. Confidentiality may be limited where disclosure is required by law or necessary to address serious safety concerns.
Charges and financial information
Charges depend on the type of accommodation, clinical needs, professional care, medicines, investigations, procedures and duration of stay. Ask the admissions team for the current estimate and inclusions before admission. An estimate is not a fixed final bill because treatment needs may change. Insurance approval, where applicable, depends on the insurer’s terms and authorisation.
During the hospital stay
Care may include psychiatric review, nursing care, psychological or psychosocial interventions, medication management, structured routines, family meetings, rehabilitation activities and physical-health monitoring according to need. Visiting, calls and leave are governed by unit policy, clinical suitability, privacy and safety.
Discharge planning begins early
Discharge is based on clinical progress and a safe continuing-care plan—not simply a fixed number of days. Before discharge, the team may discuss medicines, follow-up appointments, warning signs, family support, rehabilitation, substance-use care and what to do if symptoms worsen.
Need urgent assessment?
If there is immediate danger, suicidal behaviour, severe agitation, violence, marked confusion, inability to maintain safety or a medical emergency, do not rely on routine online booking. Seek urgent in-person help or contact local emergency services.
Frequently asked questions
Can we reserve a room before assessment?
Availability can be discussed, but final admission and accommodation depend on clinical assessment, suitability and availability at the time.
How long will admission last?
There is no single duration. Length of stay depends on symptoms, safety, response to treatment, functioning and the readiness of a safe follow-up plan.
Can a family member stay with the patient?
Attendant arrangements vary by unit, accommodation, patient age and clinical need. Confirm the current policy with the admissions team.
Can the patient use a mobile phone?
Phone access depends on unit policy and clinical suitability. Restrictions may be used where needed for privacy, treatment or safety.
What if the person refuses admission?
Contact the hospital and describe the circumstances. The correct response depends on immediate risk, decision-making capacity, clinical assessment and applicable legal requirements. Do not use physical force without appropriate professional or emergency guidance.
How should we prepare information about existing medicines?
Bring the current prescription or an accurate list of medicines and doses if available. Mention allergies and any recent changes in treatment.
Can we discuss communication or accessibility needs beforehand?
Tell the team about language, hearing, mobility, sensory or other needs when arranging a planned assessment. Ask what support can be arranged.
What should we ask about returning home?
Ask how discharge planning, follow-up, medicine instructions and support at home will be discussed with the person and, where appropriate, their family.
Speak with the admissions team
Call before travelling when possible so the team can guide you about assessment, documents and current availability.