Ensure the scene is safe

The problem with psychiatric patients is that some of them could be dangerous. Ensuring enough police support are on scene will discourage a patient from potentially acting violently to the ambulance crew.

Speak in a respectful and non threatening manner

Remember, the ambulance has arrived to the patient with the intent of helping. Being aggressive or disrespectful will not help the patient. Some basic rules of thumbs when talking to a psychiatric patient (or any patient for that matter) are:

• Acknowledge the patient is emotionally upset and that EMS is here to help.
• The ambulance crew should inform the patient about what they are doing or intend to do.
• Ask questions in a calm and reassuring voice.
• Maintain a comfortable distance.
• Do not make quick moves.
• Respond honestly to the patient’s questions.
• Never threaten, challenge, or argue with disturbed patients.
• Tell the truth when the patient asks a question.
• Do not play along with the patient’s visual or auditory disturbances.
• Involve trusted family members and friends
• Be prepared to be on scene for an extended period of time and always remain with the patient.
• Avoid unnecessary physical contact. Ensure adequate manpower are on scene.
• Use eye contact.
• Avoid threatening postures.
• Be calm, patient, and respectful.
• Lower background stimuli (turn off television, music, lower radio volume, etc.)

If the patient needs to be restrained, make sure there are plenty of rescuers