A patient who is agitated, paranoid, and profoundly anxious is brought to the emergency department. The patient describes things in the room that do not exist. A cardiac monitor shows an irregular ventricular tachycardia. Which medication will the provider order to be administer?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Diazepam is used in this scenario because it can help manage the acute agitation, paranoia, and anxiety the patient is experiencing, likely due to cocaine intoxication or withdrawal. Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, can also have a stabilizing effect on the heart rhythm, which is beneficial given the patient's irregular ventricular tachycardia. The other options do not directly address the acute symptoms presented.

A Patient Who Is Agitated, Paranoid, and Profoundly Anxious Is