INPATIENT UNIT

The impact of serious psychiatric illness can be both sudden and overwhelming. In the midst of such a crisis, it is often difficult to know where to turn for assistance.  North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset’s Psychiatric Inpatient Services offers comprehensive treatment for a broad range of serious psychiatric conditions in individuals at least 16 years of age.

What types of illnesses are treated?

Hospital-based treatment is indicated when a patient’s condition is deteriorating despite outpatient treatment, when the patient’s treatment needs are particularly complex, or when a patient’s behavior has become dangerous. The following are examples of conditions that can be treated in North Shore’s Psychiatric Inpatient Unit:

• psychotic conditions
• severe depression
• bipolar (manic-depressive) illness
• anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa
• suicidal crisis
• self-mutilation

What types of treatments are used?

Each patient is evaluated by a multidisciplinary treatment team that includes an attending psychiatrist, resident psychiatrists, a staff psychologist, psychiatric nursing staff, a psychiatric social worker and an activities therapist.  An individualized treatment plan is then formulated and presented to the patient.  Treatment is oriented toward short-term (typically about two weeks) utilization of the hospital environment for resolution of the crisis.

Treatment plans may include individual psychotherapy, group therapy, medication, occupational therapy, recreational therapy, detoxification from addicting substances, and family interventions. Careful attention is given to planning for the aftercare needs of the hospitalized patient. Every effort is made to provide support and information for the patient’s families.

How can I get more information about the Inpatient Service?

To receive information or assistance, call 516-562-4745 between 9:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday.  Seven-days-a-week, 24-hours-a-day assistance is available through the Department of Psychiatry’s Emergency Service, which can be reached by calling 516-562-0100, and asking for the resident psychiatrist on call.