Rapid Tranquillisation Policy

Question 1

what are non-drug approaches to calming angry/psychotic patient

Answer 1

use of distraction
seclusions
try talking to patient

Question 2

what are the two headings that you divide patient into when considering rapid tranquillisation

Answer 2

Grp 1

• Hx unknown
• Cardiac disease
• No Hx of typical antipsychotic
• Current illicit drug use

Grp 2
- confirmed Hx of significant typical antipsychotic exposure

Question 3

what is the next step (after non-drug approach)

Answer 3

try oral therapy
- Lorazepam 1-2mg

(if in group 2, can also give haloperidol 5mg)

Question 4

what is the next step if oral therapy is unsuccessful or you need an effect within 30 mins

Answer 4

Lorazepam 1-2mg IM

Question 5

how long do you wait before you can repeat the injection

Answer 5

30 mins

Question 6

what do you do if the second injection doesn’t work

Answer 6

seek advice from senior experienced doctor