Vol. 2, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Background: Traditional hospital-centered emergency response systems are increasingly strained by rising volumes of crisis-related presentations, particularly in mental health and psychosocial emergencies. There is growing interest in decentralized, community-based models that can deliver rapid, patient-centered care. Mobile nursing units (MNU), led by trained community first responders, offer a promising approach to bridging existing service gaps and improving crisis intervention outcomes. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of MNU interventions in improving crisis response efficiency, reducing unnecessary Emergency Department (ED) utilization, enhancing patient stabilization at the point of care, and increasing follow-up linkage, compared to traditional Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Methods: A prospective, mixed-methods study was conducted on 200 individuals presenting with acute mental health or medical crises. Participants were divided into two groups Those receiving MNU-based crisis intervention and those receiving standard EMS response. Primary outcomes included response time, on-site stabilization, ED conveyance avoidance, follow-up linkage within 72 hours, patient satisfaction, and adverse events. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and chi-square tests, while qualitative feedback underwent thematic analysis. Results: MNU interventions significantly reduced response times (mean difference ≈ 8.6 minutes, p<0.001) and achieved higher rates of on-site stabilization and ED avoidance compared to EMS. Linkage to follow-up care was notably greater in the MNU group (80%) versus the traditional EMS group (62%). Patient satisfaction scores were significantly higher in the MNU group, reflecting improved care experience. Adverse event rates remained low and comparable across groups. Conclusion: Nurse-led mobile crisis response units are a safe and effective alternative to conventional emergency pathways, offering faster intervention, greater stabilization in community settings, improved patient experience, and reduced ED burden. Incorporating MNUs into mainstream crisis care frameworks can strengthen healthcare system responsiveness, improve patient outcomes, and promote sustainable, patient-centered models of care.