Behavioral and Psychiatric Emergencies and Suicide

Question 1

Behavioral Emergency

Answer 1

when a patient’s behavior is not typical for the situation: when the patient’s behavior is unacceptable or intolerable to the patient, his family, or the community, or when the patient may harm themselves or others

Question 2

Physical Causes of Altered Mental Status

Answer 2

Low blood sugar
Lack of O2
Stroke or inadequate blood to brain
head trauma
Mind altering substances
excessive cold
excessive heat

Question 3

When dealing with a patient experiencing behavioral or psychiatric emergencies

Answer 3

Identify yourself and role
speak slowly and clearly using calm reasurring tone
make eye contact 
listen to the patient. (repeat back part of what the patient said)
do not be judgmental 
use positive body language
acknowledge feelings 
do not enter personal space

Question 4

excited delirium

Answer 4

bizarre and/or aggressive behavior. shouting, paranoia, panic, violence, towards others, insensitivity to pain, unexpected physical strength, and hyperthermia, usually associated with cocaine or amphetamine use.

Question 5

Positional Asphyxia

Answer 5

inadequate breathing or respiratory arrest caused by a body position that restricts breathing