You are on the scene of an agitated male patient with a history of alcohol abuse. He is threatening to "knock your head off" if you get close to him. While you are getting a history from the patient's wife, she states that, "He had something wrong with his EKG. A long QRS, or something like that." Which of the following should you avoid in the treatment of this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Droperidol should be avoided in patients with a long QT interval, which is similar to a long QRS interval mentioned by the patient's wife. This can cause further prolongation of the QT interval and potentially lead to a dangerous arrhythmia. Lorazepam and diazepam are appropriate treatments for agitation in this patient population. Physical restraint should only be used as a last resort for the safety of the patient and others involved.

You Are on the Scene of an Agitated Male Patient