HEADS-ED: Paediatric Mental Health Assessment for the Emergency Department
Standardised tool for assessing paediatric mental health presentations in the emergency department. Assesses 7 domains: Home, Education, Activities, Drugs/alcohol, Suicidality, Emotions/Behaviour, Discharge resources.
Score interpretation
Total below 8. If Suicidality scores 2, consult a mental health clinician or psychiatrist regardless of the total.
→ With Suicidality 0–1: safety plan with the young person and family; urgent mental health follow-up; GP letter; crisis contacts (Samaritans 116 123, Childline 0800 1111); safeguarding check.
Total 8 or more: consult a mental health clinician or psychiatrist before discharge; admission may be needed.
→ Keep the young person safe in the ED while awaiting review; involve parents or carers; safeguarding check; document the assessment and safety plan.
Interpretation bands for the HEADS-ED. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Cappelli M et al. The HEADS-ED: a rapid mental health screening tool for pediatric patients in the emergency department. Pediatrics. 2012;130(2):e321-327.
- NICE NG225. Self-harm: assessment, management and preventing recurrence. 2022.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Ibuprofen (Paediatric) · NSAID / Analgesic / Antipyretic
- Hydrocortisone (IV — Paediatric Emergency) · IV Corticosteroid / Adrenal Replacement
- Paracetamol (Paediatric) · Analgesic / Antipyretic — First-Line Pain and Fever in Children
- Morphine (Paediatric) · Opioid Analgesic — Moderate to Severe Pain in Children
- Gentamicin (Paediatric) · Aminoglycoside — Neonatal Sepsis / Gram-Negative Infections in Children
- Vancomycin (Paediatric) · Glycopeptide Antibiotic — MRSA / Severe Gram-Positive Infections in Children
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.