Substance use amongst inpatients on mental health wards: practical guide for mental health services

8. Patient causing concern – Appendix A

In all cases where a patient’s clinical presentation suggests that they may be under the influence of substances, the primary concern is the safety of the patient and monitoring for signs of deterioration to ensure swift medical management where required. The flowchart in Appendix A should be used to guide management and decision making when a patient is under the influence (or is suspected to be under the influence) of substances.