Episode 56.0 – Sedation of the Agitated Patient

The podcast addresses the management of acutely agitated patients, drawing insights from a presentation by Reuben Strayer. It distinguishes three types of agitated patients: cooperative, disruptive but not dangerous, and those experiencing excited delirium. For disruptive patients, haloperidol, lorazepam, or droperidol are suggested for sedation, balancing speed and safety. Excited delirium patients require rapid control using a four-step process: adequate physical support, non-rebreather mask, ensuring safe restraint positions, and chemical sedation, with ketamine (4-6 mg/kg IM) as a preferred option. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a thorough medical and trauma evaluation after the patient is safely restrained to identify underlying causes of the agitation.