Section 28 Flashcards
(40 cards)
What is the primary goal in managing psychiatric emergencies?
To ensure the safety of the patient and others while addressing the immediate psychiatric crisis.
What are common psychiatric emergencies?
Suicidal ideation, acute psychosis, severe anxiety, aggressive behavior, and substance withdrawal.
How is acute agitation managed in emergency settings?
Through verbal de-escalation, environmental control, and medications if necessary (e.g., benzodiazepines or antipsychotics).
What is the role of de-escalation techniques in psychiatric emergencies?
To calm the patient, reduce anxiety, and prevent escalation to physical aggression.
How is suicidal ideation assessed in the emergency department?
Through risk assessment, evaluation of intent, planning, and protective factors.
What are the warning signs of suicide?
Expressions of hopelessness, withdrawal, drastic mood changes, and talking about death or self-harm.
How is acute psychosis managed in emergency care?
Safety measures, antipsychotic medications, and addressing underlying medical conditions.
What are the key features of delirium?
Acute confusion, disorientation, fluctuating consciousness, and impaired cognition.
How is delirium differentiated from dementia?
Delirium is acute and reversible, while dementia is chronic and progressive.
What are the common causes of delirium in emergency settings?
Infection, dehydration, medication effects, metabolic disturbances, and head trauma.
How is anxiety managed in emergency settings?
Through reassurance, environmental control, and anxiolytic medications if needed.
What is the emergency management of panic attacks?
Reassurance, controlled breathing, and sometimes benzodiazepines.
How is aggressive behavior managed in emergency care?
De-escalation, physical restraint if necessary, and sedative medications.
What is the role of psychiatric assessment in emergency settings?
To identify risk factors, determine mental status, and plan appropriate interventions.
How is substance withdrawal managed in emergencies?
Monitoring, supportive care, and medications like benzodiazepines for alcohol withdrawal.
What is the management approach for opioid withdrawal?
Symptomatic treatment, opioid agonists (e.g., methadone or buprenorphine), and supportive care.
How is alcohol intoxication managed in emergency settings?
Monitoring, hydration, and supportive care to prevent complications.
What are the symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal?
Anxiety, tremors, insomnia, and in severe cases, seizures.
How is benzodiazepine withdrawal treated?
Gradual tapering of the medication and symptomatic management.
What is the emergency protocol for patients with violent behavior?
Ensure staff safety, consider chemical or physical restraint, and evaluate the underlying cause.
How is malingering differentiated from true psychiatric conditions?
Malingering is characterized by intentional faking of symptoms for external gain.
What is the significance of psychiatric hold (Section 5150)?
It allows for involuntary psychiatric evaluation if a patient poses danger to self or others.
How is dissociative disorder managed in emergency settings?
Reassurance, psychological support, and evaluation for underlying trauma.
What are the characteristics of catatonia in emergency medicine?
Immobility, mutism, stupor, and resistance to movement.
