What is the first step in the assessment of a patient with a behavioral emergency?

What is the first step in the assessment of a patient with a behavioral emergency?

• A. Ensure your safety.
• B. Call for backup.
• C. Obtain consent.
• D. Begin de-escalation with conversation.

Answer: (A)

The first thing to establish is your safety on the scene. Behavioral emergencies can become dangerous quickly, so you must make sure you and your teammates are not at risk before approaching or starting any assessment. This means evaluating the environment for hazards, possible weapons, the number of people involved, and your escape routes, and using protective distance and equipment as needed. If there’s any doubt about safety, back away and call for backup so a safety plan can be put in place. Only once safety is secured should you move toward de-escalation and patient assessment. Consent is often not possible in an agitated state, so treatment proceeds under implied consent when necessary.

The first thing to establish is your safety on the scene. Behavioral emergencies can become dangerous quickly, so you must make sure you and your teammates are not at risk before approaching or starting any assessment. This means evaluating the environment for hazards, possible weapons, the number of people involved, and your escape routes, and using protective distance and equipment as needed. If there’s any doubt about safety, back away and call for backup so a safety plan can be put in place. Only once safety is secured should you move toward de-escalation and patient assessment. Consent is often not possible in an agitated state, so treatment proceeds under implied consent when necessary.