Which protocol should be consulted for severe agitation during transport?

• A. Behavioral Emergencies Protocol.
• B. Cardiac Arrest Protocol.
• C. Seizure Protocol.
• D. Respiratory Distress Protocol.

Answer: (A)

When someone is severely agitated during transport, the focus is on managing a behavioral crisis to keep everyone safe while addressing the patient’s needs. The Behavioral Emergencies Protocol provides the steps for de-escalation, risk assessment, and decisions about how to proceed with transport or destination, including when to involve mental health professionals or law enforcement and how to safely manage the patient. It emphasizes calming strategies, creating a safe environment, and recognizing when pharmacologic intervention or restraints may be necessary under policy and with proper monitoring. The other protocols are aimed at different medical emergencies (cardiac arrest, seizures, or respiratory distress) and aren’t designed to guide the management of acute behavioral crises during transport, which is why this protocol is the best fit.