Print Print
CKS is no longer commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE remains committed to providing a replacement service for CKS and is currently reviewing its options. In the meantime, although CKS content is now not being maintained, it still remains relevant and will continue to be made available. CKS content was generated under a programme of topic creation and update. To check if the topic you are viewing is current or out of date, please refer to the topic publication details by clicking on the 'How up-to-date is this topic?' link in the left hand menu on individual topic pages.

Eating disorders - Management
When should I admit a person with a suspected eating disorder to hospital?

  • Consider admission to hospital if any of the following are present (discussion with a specialist may be necessary):
    • Risk of suicide or severe self harm — this will require admission to an acute psychiatric ward, not a specialist eating disorders unit.
    • Home environment impedes recovery.
    • Severe deterioration — this may require admission to an acute medical ward.
    • Very low body weight or rapid weight loss — admission to an eating disorders unit may be most appropriate.
    • Medical complications (for example pronounced oedema, severe electrolyte disturbance, hypoglycaemia, or severe intercurrent infection) — admission to an acute medical ward may be most appropriate.
  • If considering compulsory admission (regardless of the person's age), consider seeking advice from an appropriate specialist.
    • If a young person refuses treatment that is deemed essential, consideration should be given to the use of the Mental Health Act 1983 or the right of those with parental responsibility to override the young person's refusal.
  • Discuss with a local specialist the most appropriate place to admit a person with life-threatening anorexia, as it is not always obvious and depends on local services and practice.
    • An acute medical ward that specializes in endocrinology, gastroenterology, or diabetes may be preferable to an eating disorders unit or general psychiatric ward in certain circumstances.
    • Admit children and adolescents to age-appropriate facilities (with the potential for separate child and adolescent services), which have the capacity to provide appropriate educational and related activities.

© NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement