Pharmacological management for acute behavioural disturbance

Pharmacological management for acute behavioural disturbance is complex and varies according to patient groups. The aim of pharmacological management is to safely calm, soothe or sedate the patient in order to manage any precipitating or predisposing factors contributing to the acute behavioural disturbance. Pharmacological management is a restrictive practice that is sometimes referred to as ‘chemical restraint’. Nonpharmacological management techniques are preferred for first-line management of acute behavioural disturbance and should continue alongside any pharmacological regimen, both before and after drug administration; however, if there is an imminent risk of significant harm to the patient or others, immediate sedation may be required.