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Review
. 2021 Aug 1;37(8):417-422.
doi: 10.1097/PEC.0000000000002510.

Pharmacologic Management of Acute Agitation in Youth in the Emergency Department

Jennifer A Hoffmann  1 , Alba Pergjika  2 , Claire E Konicek  3 , Sally L Reynolds  1
Affiliations
Review

Pharmacologic Management of Acute Agitation in Youth in the Emergency Department

Jennifer A Hoffmann et al. Pediatr Emerg Care. .

Abstract

When youth in the emergency department become acutely agitated, it can be dangerous and distressing to patients, families, and clinicians. Timely, effective, and patient-centered management is key to reducing the potential for patient and staff injury while preserving patient dignity. We review the definition of agitation and pharmacologic management for youth with acute agitation, including common classes of medications, indications for use, and adverse effects. We also discuss the need to integrate the use of medications into a comprehensive strategy for agitation management that begins with proactive prevention of aggressive behavior, creation of a therapeutic treatment environment, and verbal de-escalation strategies.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Algorithm for comprehensive care of agitation in youth in the emergency department This algorithm may be used to guide comprehensive care for youth with agitation in the emergency department. PO: per os; ODT: orally dissolving tablet; IM: intramuscular; ECG: electrocardiogram.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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