Acute psychosis

F23.0-3/F23.8-9 + (F10.0-F19.9/R45.0-8/Z65.0-5/Z65.8-9/Z81.0-4/ Z81.8)

• Description
• General measures
• Medicine treatment
• Referral

DESCRIPTION

Acute psychosis is a clinical state characterised by recent onset of psychotic symptoms such as: hallucinations, delusions, disorganised or illogical speech, agitation or bizarre behaviour and extreme and labile emotional states.
These symptoms may be preceded by a period of deteriorating social, occupational and academic functioning.

GENERAL MEASURES

• Ensure the safety of the patient and those caring for them.
• Minimise stress and stimulation (do not argue with psychotic thinking).
• Avoid confrontation or criticism, unless it is necessary to prevent harmful or disruptive behaviour.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

For agitated and acutely disturbed patients, manage as for the aggressive or disruptive patient. See: Aggressive disruptive behaviour in adults .

REFERRAL

All patients.