In the typical sequence from 5150 to discharge, what happens after initiation of the hold?

• A. Evaluation at a receiving facility
• B. Discharge planning
• C. Release to community care
• D. Treatment if needed

Answer: (B)

Starting a 5150 hold means the person is taken to a designated crisis receiving facility for an immediate psychiatric evaluation. The next step is that formal evaluation by a mental health professional to determine safety, level of need for treatment, and whether the hold should continue, be extended, or the person can be discharged. This evaluation guides the plan of care: if further treatment is needed, the team may arrange for continued involuntary treatment; if not, they plan for discharge and connection to community supports. In other words, the crucial immediate action after initiating the hold is the professional evaluation at the receiving facility, which then informs any discharge planning or ongoing treatment decisions.