Crisis resolution teams (CRTs) are required to address and alleviate the symptoms of the full spectrum of psychiatric disorders. In this chapter, John Hoult discusses the assessment, management and monitoring of symptoms by the multidisciplinary team, including the management of agitated and suicidal patients, and particular considerations relating to prescribing and monitoring medication in crises. The role of psychologists in CRTs and the potential of brief psychological interventions are then described by Fiona Nolan.

The phases of symptom management

Managing symptoms at home with a CRT is in most ways similar to managing symptoms elsewhere, so the similarities will not be mentioned here. Going into the full details of management of specific mental illnesses is beyond the scope of this book, and we assume that teams will be aware of current good practice guidance, such as the NICE guidelines for management of a variety of disorders (http://www.nice.org.uk). Chapter 8 provides a description of how assessment of people in crises differs from assessments elsewhere. In what follows, there will be a brief mention of the assessment phase, but more emphasis will be given to how to plan care and manage people with the more common types of symptom within the CRT.

The planning phase

While the assessment is going on, staff silently wonder what they can do to treat the person at home. Options start to formulate in their minds, changing as information emerges.