The Agitated Patient

Suggested approach and Clinical Pearls

• Rapidly assess the patient and environment to allow maximal staff and patient safety
• Code Grey can be called for additional support to restrain a combative patient
• Consider mechanical and chemical restraint for unsafe patients
  • This may include anaesthesia and intubation for behaviour control
• Always check blood glucose patient, along with electrolytes
• Consider thiamine replacement and a drug/alcohol withdrawal scale
• Consider an undiagnosed intracranial cause for the patient’s behaviour, particularly if unilateral signs