Question

A 30-year-old man with schizophrenia is acutely agitated, shouting and threatening staff in the emergency department. Verbal de-escalation has failed and he poses an immediate risk. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Rapid tranquillisation with IM antipsychotic and/or benzodiazepine according to protocol with monitoring

Answer

Physical restraint alone for several hours

Answer

Discharge him home immediately

Answer

Use high-dose opioids to sedate him

Answer

Wait until he calms down without intervention

Practice question

A 30-year-old man with schizophrenia is acutely agitated, shouting and threatening staff in the emergency department. Verbal de-escalation has failed and he poses an immediate risk. What is the most appropriate management?