Agitated/Combative Patient - Analgosedation & Paralysis

Question 1

What medication is recommended for mild-moderate agitation after assessing for medical causes? What med should be used for severe agitation/combativeness?

Answer 1

Mild-moderate: midazolam IV/IO or IM

Severe/combative: ketamine IV/IO or IM

Question 2

If there’s a primary psychiatric diagnosis in an agitated or combative patient what medication is recommended?

Answer 2

Haloperidol (Haldol) IV or IM (mandatory patch)