GuidelinesOther guideline
Substance Related Psychosis
Substance Related Psychosis
Assessment
Criteria For This Protocol
Psychotic symptoms in a known drug abuser not occurring only during intoxication and withdrawal (>48 hrs after last use)
Aim: Exclude a co-existing illness or injury and identifying reasons for deterioration
- D-MIST handover from Ambulance
- COLLATERAL from carer or escort is vital
SAMPLE History
- S igns and Symptoms: Ask about precipitating causes.
- A llergies
- M edications
- P ast Medical and Psychiatric History
- E vents surrounding Presentation
RECORD NAME, CONTACT NUMBER AND ADDRESS OF CARERS OR FAMILY
Physical observations and full medical examination
| Perform MENTAL STATE EXAMINATION (Record this in notes) | |
| Fluctuating or Stable | What is the Mood or Affect? |
| Speech: Fast or Slow? Is the content coherent and logical? | Assess cognition, insight and judgement |
| Are there delusions? Are there Auditory Hallucinations? Other types or more than one kind? | |
Management
Ensure SAFETY of yourself, staff, the patient and other patients.
Ensure security personnel are present. Screen for weapons and if present, disarm the patient
Evaluate the patient in a safe room with help accessible: Position yourself so that neither you nor the patient feel threatened.
