skip to main content

Stimulant-induced excited delirium — RCPSC EM MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardPsychiatric emergenciesStimulant-induced excited deliriumRCPSC EM

A 27-year-old man with stimulant use is extremely agitated, paranoid, and threatening staff. Temperature is 39.5°C, heart rate is 162/min, and he is diaphoretic. Verbal de-escalation fails and security is present. After rapid sedation and cooling are initiated, What is the most appropriate investigation?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — ECG, CK, electrolytes, renal function, and glucose

Severe stimulant-associated agitation with hyperthermia can cause arrhythmia, rhabdomyolysis, electrolyte disturbance, renal injury, and hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia. These should be assessed after immediate safety and cooling measures begin.

Reference: CAEP agitation management practice; toxicology guidance