Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates Rethinking Agitation Management: From Force to Partnership
Jan 21, 2025
In a thought-provoking discussion, Scott Zeller, Vice President for Acute Psychiatry at Vituity and former president of the American Association for Emergency Psychiatry, challenges traditional views on managing agitation. He emphasizes the importance of involving patients in medication decisions, even in crises. The conversation addresses the stigma of 'chemical restraints' and promotes respectful, patient-centered approaches that prioritize calming strategies. Zeller advocates for innovative methods blending medication with verbal de-escalation to enhance outcomes in emergency settings.
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Avoid Chemical Restraint Terminology
- Recognize that parenteral medications for agitation are not chemical restraints, but medical treatments.
- Avoid using the term "chemical restraint" due to its negative connotations and stigma.
Prioritize Non-Pharmacological Approaches and Patient Involvement
- Prioritize non-pharmacological approaches like verbal de-escalation and calming techniques before medication.
- Involve patients in medication decisions, as many agitated individuals can still communicate their preferences.
Treatment Goals for Agitation
- Aim to calm agitated patients, not render them unconscious, minimizing side effects.
- Focus on building a therapeutic alliance to prevent future emergencies.