Prehospital Evaluation and Management of Violent or Agitated Children

Emergency medical services personnel often encounter violent or agitated patients. Maintaining control of the situation and protecting the safety of the patient, providers, and bystanders may require the use of some form of physical restraint or sedation. This article presents information on the assessment and management of violent or agitated children and adolescents in the prehospital setting, including recommendations on the use of physical and chemical restraint.