6/005.00 Excited Delirium

Question 1

It is the policy of this department to identify a subject displaying symptoms of excited delirium and _______ the situation with care, consistent with provided training, ensuring that the person receives a response which is appropriate to their needs and protects the safety of all concerned.

Answer 1

de-escalate

Question 2

Persons in this acute excited state should be considered in _______ _______.

Answer 2

medical crisis

Question 3

They typically have an elevated body temperature, increased heart rate and may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which can lead to _______ _______.

Answer 3

sudden death

Question 4

Excited Delirium is a state of extreme excitation usually associated with illicit drug use and manifested by behavioral and physical changes that may result in sudden and unexplained death.

Signs of this condition typically include some or all of the following:

Answer 4

• excessive body temperature
• profuse sweating
• dilated pupils
• uncontrollable shaking
• talking incoherently
• screaming
• yelling
• paranoia
• extreme aggression toward objects
• violent resistance/struggling
• inappropriate shedding of clothing
• self-inflicted injuries.

Question 5

Procedure:

The Patrol Officer will:

Answer 5

1. Assesses the situation and confers with other on-site responders in an attempt to determine if the person is suffering from mental illness or excited delirium.
2. If excited delirium is suspected, requests medical personnel, supervisor and CIT officer to respond immediately.
3. Establishes containment of the area.
4. Formulates a custody plan prior to making physical contact with the subject. The object of the plan is to de-escalate the situation, calm the individual and gain control of the person, as practicable. This can include verbal communication, request of CIT trained officers, or other levels of the Force Model as are reasonable to the situation.
5. Closely observes the subject prior to arrival of medical personnel and shares any observations with medical upon their arrival.
6. Once sufficient officers are present and if the determination is made that physical force is necessary, the custody plan must be executed quickly to prevent the escalation of the excited physical state of the person and an increase in distress. If possible, does not execute custody plan until medical personnel arrive.
7. Considers options available to help reduce the physical and mental distress that subject is experiencing. Such options include, but are not limited to:
   a. Using two sets of handcuffs to avoid further discomfort
   b. Assisting subject in sitting up-right or laying on side to facilitate breathing
   c. Calming the subject verbally by explaining the situation and advising that medical is en route.
8. A subject who suddenly becomes quiet or who no longer offers resistance should be immediately assessed to ensure adequate breathing and the presence of a pulse.
9. Coordinates with on-scene medical personnel to transfer custody of the subject to them, assisting in any way to avoid delay in transportation of the individual to a medical facility.
10. Responds to the medical facility to complete appropriate paperwork which may include a Legal 2000, and/or submission of appropriate paperwork for a warrant and/or in absentia booking if it is determined that a crime has been committed.
11. If physical force was used, completes a Use of Force Report as detailed in 6/002.00 detailing the events and actions of the subject that led to the decision that the person was suffering from excited delirium.

Question 6

Procedure:

The Supervisor will:

Answer 6

1. Responds to the scene to provide advice, ensure sufficient back-up is available and appropriate decisions are made.
2. Ensures forms and reports are completed as required, including the Legal 2000, Use of Force Report (if necessary) and Officer’s Report.