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