To analyze, for all the pediatric consultations in 2008 in the emergency ward of the Pediatric Hospital of the University of Campinas, the clinical and demographic profile of the consultations in which there was a possible psychiatric diagnosis.

Review of all forms of consultations for children enrolled in the unit during 2008, selecting those with the possibility of a psychiatric diagnosis.

Of 21,811 consultations in 2008, 95(0.43%) included psychiatric complaints - 60(63.2%) girls and 35(36.8%) boys, aged 1-13 years(9±0.4). 70(73.7%) were white, 18(18.9%) mixed and 7(7.4%) black. A psychiatric evaluation was called for in 39(41.0%) cases. In 35(36.8%) sexual abuse was suspected. Other forms of violence were reported in 8(8.4%) cases. There were 6(6.31%) suicide attempts, 10(10.5%) cases of extreme agitation, 14(14.7%) consultations for extreme anxiety/dissociative symptoms, 5(5.3%) for depressive symptoms and 4(4.2%) for a psychotic condition. Twenty(21.1%) children were already using psychotropic drugs at the time of evaluation and in 29(30.5%) evaluations there were subsequent psychiatric interventions, with drug prescriptions in 11(37.9%). Nine(9.5%) children had clinical/pediatric conditions.

Children may need psychiatric care in emergency situations for various conditions. Despite the small percentage among the total number of pediatric emergency consultations, psychiatric evaluation, when necessary, can be useful and have an impact on diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The plight of these children can be intense, demanding prompt and effective action. A psychiatrist can provide assistance that may help the pediatrician in the management of severe pathological conditions that affect the mental lives of children.