AGITATION

Agitation refers to a state of hyperarousal, increased tension, and irritability that

can lead to confusion, hyperactivity, and overt hostility. Agitation can result from a
toxic (poisons), metabolic, or infectious cause; brain injury; or a psychiatric disorder.
It can also result from pain, fever, anxiety, drug use and withdrawal, hypersensitivity
reactions, and various disorders. It can arise gradually or suddenly and last
for minutes or months.Whether it’s mild or severe, agitation worsens with increased
fever, pain, stress, or external stimuli.
Agitation alone merely signals a change in the patient’s condition. However, it’s
a useful indicator of a developing disorder.
HISTORY
Determine the severity of the patient’s agitation by examining the number and
quality of agitation-induced behaviors, such as emotional lability, confusion, memory
loss, hyperactivity, and hostility. Obtain a history from the patient or a family
member, including diet and known allergies.
Ask if the patient is being treated for any illnesses. Has he had any recent infections,
trauma, stress, or changes in sleep patterns? Ask the patient about prescribed
or over-the-counter drug use, including supplements and herbal medicines. Ask
about alcohol intake.
PHYSICAL ASSESSMENT
Perform a complete physical examination. Check for signs of drug abuse, such as
needle tracks and dilated pupils. Obtain baseline vital signs and neurologic status
for future comparison.