Signs & Symptoms
This symptom involves hearing or seeing things that aren't there.
What is hallucination
This disorder is characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression.
What is bipolar disorder
The initial step in assessing a psychiatric emergency patient.
What is ensuring scene safety
The first priority in managing a psychiatric emergency.
What is ensuring safety of patient and responders
The right of a patient to refuse treatment if they are competent and informed.
What is informed consent
A sudden intense feeling of fear or discomfort, often with physical symptoms like a racing heart.
What is a panic attack
A chronic psychiatric disorder involving hallucinations and delusions.
What is schizophrenia
The acronym used to assess a patient's mental status, including Alertness and Orientation.
What is AVPU or A&O (Alert and Oriented)
Medication often used to sedate severely agitated patients in emergency settings.
What is a benzodiazepine (e.g., lorazepam)
This law protects patient privacy and confidentiality.
What is HIPAA
This term describes a person’s loss of touch with reality, often involving delusions.
What is psychosis
This anxiety disorder is marked by persistent, excessive worry about various things.
What is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
A communication technique used to calm agitated patients by acknowledging their feelings and speaking calmly.
What is de-escalation
The legal process sometimes required to transport a psychiatric patient against their will.
What is involuntary commitment
When a patient is a danger to themselves or others, this may override their right to refuse care.
What is the duty to protect or emergency hold
When a patient shows extreme agitation and restlessness, often pacing or unable to stay still.
What is hyperactivity or agitation
A condition where the patient has trouble distinguishing reality and may be confused or disoriented.
What is delirium
This type of question helps gather detailed information by encouraging the patient to explain in their own words.
What are open-ended questions
This type of environment helps to reduce sensory stimulation and calm a psychiatric patient.
What is a quiet or low-stimulus environment
EMTs must avoid this common pitfall when interacting with psychiatric patients.
What is stigma or bias
This symptom is characterized by persistent sadness or loss of interest in activities.
What is depression
This disorder often involves flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety after a traumatic event.
What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
When a patient refuses treatment, this must be assessed to determine if they have this capacity.
What is decision-making capacity
This is the best way to gain cooperation from a patient experiencing psychosis.
What is building rapport and establishing trust
This ethical principle requires EMTs to act in the patient’s best interest.
What is beneficence