Questions: What is the first step in managing a psychiatric emergency in an elderly patient? Ensure physical safety and stability Start high-dose antipsychotics Initiate immediate psychotherapy Refer to a specialist

The answer is Ensure physical safety and stability.

In any psychiatric emergency, especially with elderly patients, the primary concern is to ensure the physical safety and stability of the patient. This involves assessing the immediate environment for any potential hazards and ensuring that the patient is not at risk of harming themselves or others. This step is crucial as it provides a safe foundation upon which further treatment can be built.

Starting high-dose antipsychotics immediately is not typically the first step in managing a psychiatric emergency. While medication may be necessary, it is important to first assess the situation and ensure safety before administering any drugs, especially in elderly patients who may have different pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic responses.

Immediate psychotherapy is not usually the first step in a psychiatric emergency. While therapy is an important part of treatment, it is more effective once the patient is stable and safe. In an emergency, the focus is initially on stabilization.

Referring to a specialist is important, but it is not the first step in managing an emergency. Ensuring safety and stability takes precedence, and once the patient is stable, a specialist can be consulted for further evaluation and treatment planning.