This is a 6 month outcome study of children referred from the pediatric ED for urgent psychiatric consult at a university hospital. Data was gathered on demographic variables, reason for referral, presenting complaints, developmental variables and Family history, previous diagnosis, treatments, psychiatrists diagnosis and disposition, admission rates, ER visits and referral to other psychiatric clinics. Paediatricians provided feedback. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics.

Common reason for referral was aggression, grade 3 males predominated, the commonest diagnosis was ADHD/ADD followed by anxiety disorder. 67% had previous diagnosis and had a trial of medication, more than a quarter had LD, positive family history for ADHD/ADD or antisocial PD. There was 67% agreement between Pediatrician and psychiatrist on diagnosis.

Amongst children that present to pediatric ER, there are a number of children who, by virtue of their neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities and consequent emotionla/behavioral dyscontrol, require expediated psychiatric assessment and management. Timely access to this service reduces the need for ongoing hospital based services and presentation to ED.