In an emergency, which action aligns with best practice when a patient is aggressively resisting care?

• A. Request law enforcement assistance
• B. Restrain the patient immediately
• C. Proceed with care without consent
• D. Await physician instruction

Answer: (A)

When safety is at risk because a patient is aggressively resisting care, the first priority is to create a secure environment and obtain appropriate authority to intervene. Requesting law enforcement assistance is the best practice because it provides safety and the legal backing needed to proceed if care becomes necessary, while also helping to de-escalate the situation. Restraining the patient immediately or proceeding with care without consent can place the patient and staff at risk and may be unlawful unless specific legal criteria are met. Waiting for physician instruction can delay critical safety actions in a volatile moment. After security is established, continue de-escalation, assess capacity, obtain consent if possible, and document all steps taken.