Long-term treatment will depend on the cause. Further history may need to be obtained from family or friends to evaluate baseline functioning. Hospitalization may be indicated for patient safety. Used to treat violent, assaultive, or extremely agitated patients. It is very useful in the emergency department as well as for inpatients.
Medications used is rapid tranquilization.
Patients who have been tranquilized must have vital signs closely monitored. Side effects may dictate antipsychotic chosen. Haloperidol produces less hypotension than other preparations do and is relatively safe in large doses. See Table 15-6 for details. May use Haldol in IV form for more rapid effect.