What is the best approach for handling subjects suffering from psychosis to protect them and others from potential injury?

• A. Restrain
• B. Contain
• C. Observe
• D. Evacuate

Answer: (A)

In crisis situations, safety means acting to prevent harm now while using the least amount of force necessary. When someone experiencing psychosis poses an imminent risk to themselves or others and de-escalation or non-physical approaches won’t prevent injury in time, a protective restraint is used as a last resort to interrupt that immediate danger. This option is considered because it directly limits the ability to cause harm, whereas simply observing or evacuating may not stop the threat quickly enough, and containment without active control of the risk can be insufficient. Of course, this approach must be implemented only by trained personnel, in line with policy, for the shortest duration needed, with continuous monitoring and access to medical care. After the immediate danger is addressed, the focus shifts to medical evaluation, support, and proper incident documentation and debriefing to learn and improve future responses.