Q: on a 72 hour hold do weekends count? Example a person goes in at 5 a Fri when would the hold time be over?
I have been told by staff that weekends do not count and the hold time would start on Monday. Is this correct? And what if the person VOLUNTARIALY went in for help and the hospital refuses to allow him to leave?
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A:
In most cases, weekends and holidays do count toward a 72-hour hold, but laws can vary depending on the state or country you're in. If a person is placed on a 72-hour psychiatric hold starting Friday at 5 p.m., their hold should generally be over by Monday at 5 p.m. It’s important to check with your local laws or hospital policies, but the idea that weekends don’t count is not common.
If someone voluntarily checked into the hospital and now wishes to leave, but the hospital refuses, they might be placed on an involuntary hold if the medical staff believes they are a danger to themselves or others. Even when someone goes in voluntarily, the hospital can intervene if there are safety concerns.
You have the right to ask for clear information from the hospital about the process and their reasons for keeping someone. If you feel that the person’s rights are being overlooked, contacting a patient advocate or lawyer can help clarify the legal situation.
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