Table 1. Features of psychiatric crisis care and their valued attributes.

Feature	Valued characteristics
Accommodations	Placement in a private area/room as opposed to a public space Hot blankets, pillows, windows
Basic needs and infrastructure	Access to food, Comfortable and clean garments, Adequate sleeping arrangements, Hygienic bathroom spaces, and Materials to support meaningful use of free time
Freedoms	Involuntary commitment can be appropriate for safety and to meet referral criteria Transparent and open communication with providers regarding their care Outside recreation
Communication	Clarity and timeliness of communication, so that there was a mutual understanding of the care process Conversation is especially important around difficult topics, e.g. health risks, restraint, involuntary commitment Common courtesies and respect are a critical foundation of fruitful conversation Kindness is greatly appreciated Shared decision-making and self-advocacy can be planned for ahead of time, even if it is not always possible during psychiatric crisis
Length of stay	Shared decision-making in length of crisis care Understanding that extended stay was associated with improved treatment options, medication management, and follow-up referrals Enhanced rapport with crisis staff to shorten wait time
Visitation during crisis care	Presence of family and friends in crisis de-escalation Pre-defined visiting hours for guests Opportunities to approve or exclude potential guests during crisis care stay
Follow-up care	Discussion of options so that referral site is matched to preferences Referral set up prior to discharge, including calls and paperwork Attention given to how the referral site is working for that person, so that poor-fit referral is not repeated