EMTB9e: Interactive Ready for Review for Chapter 19

· Your major responsibility in emergencies is to defuse potentially life-threatening incidents and reduce the impact of the stressful condition without exposing yourself to unnecessary risks.
· There are a number of warning signs of behavior, including a history of hostile behavior, rigidity, loud and erratic speech patterns, agitation, and depression.
· A behavioral emergency is any reaction to events that interferes with . A person who is no longer able to respond appropriately to the environment may be having a more serious psychiatric emergency.
· Underlying causes of behavioral emergencies fall into two categories: organic brain syndrome and functional disorders.
· Assessing a person who may be having a behavioral crisis involves observing the person, talking with the person, and talking with witnesses to the person's behavior. Look for indications that the
· person's thoughts, feelings, and reactions are inappropriate for the circumstances.
· Consider contributing factors in three areas: central nervous system functioning, drug or alcohol use, and psychogenic circumstances.
· The threat of suicide requires immediate intervention. is the most significant risk factor for suicide.
· You have limited legal authority to require a patient to undergo emergency medical care in the absence of a life-threatening emergency. However, most states have provisions allowing to place mentally impaired persons in custody so that care can be provided. Involve law enforcement personnel any time you are called to assist a patient in a severe behavioral or psychiatric crisis.
· Always consult medical control and contact law enforcement personnel for help before restraining a patient. If restraints are required, use the minimum force necessary. Assess the airway and circulation frequently while the patient is restrained.
In providing emergency medical care for a patient having a behavioral emergency, be direct, honest, and calm; have a definite plan of action; stay with the patient at all times, but don't get too close. Always treat such patients with respect.