Management of the Agitated Patient

Division

TriStar

Hospital

TriStar Skyline Medical Center

Document Type

Review Article

Publication Date

2-1-2024

Keywords

Humans, Psychomotor Agitation, Ketamine, Antipsychotic Agents, Benzodiazepines, Restraint, Physical, Emergency Service, Hospital

Disciplines

Emergency Medicine | Mental and Social Health

Abstract

The acutely agitated patient should be managed in a step-wise fashion, beginning with non-coercive de-escalation strategies and moving on to pharmacologic interventions and physical restraints as necessary. Face-to-face examination, monitoring, and documentation by the physician are essential. The emergency physician should be familiar with multiple pharmaceutical options, tailored to the individual patient. Use of ketamine, benzodiazepines and antipsychotics should be considered. Patient autonomy, safety, and medical well-being are paramount.

Publisher or Conference

Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America

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