CPEP unit
Pronunciation: SEE-pep
Also written as: CPEP — Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program
Specialized emergency department area for psychiatric crisis evaluation and stabilization.
Full Definition
Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) units are specialized emergency departments designed specifically for psychiatric crisis evaluation and short-term stabilization. These units provide immediate psychiatric assessment, crisis intervention, medication management, and disposition planning for patients presenting with acute mental health emergencies. CPEP units operate 24/7 with psychiatric staff and are designed to reduce emergency department overcrowding while providing specialized psychiatric care. Length of stay is typically limited to 72 hours.
Usage
Usage note: Specific to emergency psychiatric services; distinguish from general emergency departments or outpatient crisis centers.
In Context
- "The patient was transferred from the general ED to the CPEP unit for specialized psychiatric evaluation." — Transfer documentation
- "CPEP unit protocols require psychiatric assessment within two hours of registration." — Clinical guidelines