Excited delirium syndrome

Excited delirium syndrome involves extreme agitation and aggression in a
patient with an altered mental status; around one in ten cases ends in cardiac
arrest. It has two main triggers: acute drug use and psychiatric illness. Patients
display violent behaviour, increased pain tolerance and great strength; they pose
significant risks to themselves and those around them. Maintaining safety on
scene is paramount, which can be supported by a dual response by paramedics
and law enforcement officers, and the patient is likely to need restraining or
sedation. Treatment is non-specific and involves managing symptoms and
complications such as hyperthermia, acidosis and rhabdomyolysis.