COPR Behavioral Health and Mental Health Emergencies

Question 1

Which approach is most appropriate when de-escalating an agitated patient?

Accepted Answer

Use a calm, non-threatening tone, keep a safe distance and maintain an exit route

Answer

Verbal de-escalation uses a calm voice, open posture and respect for personal space while keeping an escape route for the paramedic. Restraint is a last resort.

Question 2

When assessing a patient who may be suicidal, what is the recommended approach?

Accepted Answer

Ask directly about suicidal thoughts and whether they have a plan

Answer

Asking directly and non-judgmentally does not increase risk. It lets the paramedic assess intent, plan and means and arrange safe transport.

Question 3

Which finding is the key difference between delirium and dementia?

Accepted Answer

Delirium has an acute onset with a fluctuating level of consciousness

Answer

Delirium develops over hours to days, fluctuates, and is often caused by an underlying medical problem. Dementia is a gradual, progressive decline.

Question 4

A violently agitated patient with a high temperature has been restrained. What is the safest approach?

Accepted Answer

Avoid prone restraint, monitor continuously, and treat underlying causes such as hyperthermia and hypoxia

Answer

Prone restraint carries a risk of positional asphyxia. Severe agitation can also cause hyperthermia and metabolic derangement, so ongoing monitoring and prompt medical treatment are essential.

Question 5

Before attributing a patient's confusion and agitation to a psychiatric cause, what should the paramedic do?

Accepted Answer

Rule out medical causes such as hypoglycemia and hypoxia

Answer

Many medical conditions mimic psychiatric illness, including low blood glucose, hypoxia, infection, head injury and toxicity. These must be excluded first.

COPR - Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators Examination Practice Test

COPR - Canadian Organization of Paramedic Regulators Examination Practice Test

COPR Behavioral Health and Mental Health Emergencies