Are they high, mentally ill, or just obnoxious? Patients in correctional facilities frequently present with acute agitation and profound noncompliance. The etiology of the agitation can vary widely and result from acute intoxication, medical crisis, drug withdrawal, serious mental illness, and behavioral issues. This talk discusses tried and true techniques to manage these disruptive patients to keep them safe and minimize their impact on institutional operations.

Educational Objectives

• Identify ways determine the severity of a patient's agitation to help guide clinical decisions
• Review proven management techniques for treating acutely agitated patients
• List current medication management strategies for treating acutely agitated patients

Level Basic