APA Dictionary of Psychology

immediate action undertaken to minimize or eliminate the harm caused by a sudden and (usually) unforeseen occurrence. For example, emergency intervention for a rape victim may involve conducting a clinical interview within 24 to 78 hours after the rape in order to evaluate the person’s status, reduce their potential for experiencing adverse mental health consequences, and develop a plan for long-term recovery. Although many people use this term interchangeably with crisis intervention, others limit it to situations involving suicidal behavior, violent behavior, or interpersonal victimization.