What is one way EMDs can help de-escalate a situation in a psychiatric emergency?

Maintaining a non-threatening verbal and physical posture is an effective way for Emergency Medical Dispatchers (EMDs) to de-escalate a situation during a psychiatric emergency. This approach fosters a sense of safety and calm for the individual in crisis, which is crucial for reducing tension and escalating behaviors. Non-threatening communication—both in tone and body language—can help establish a rapport, making the patient feel more comfortable and open to dialogue.

By actively exhibiting non-threatening behavior, EMDs can create an environment conducive to engagement and support, allowing the individual to express their feelings without fear of judgment or confrontation. This technique encourages the patient to feel heard and understood, which can significantly reduce anxiety and aggression, allowing for a more effective response to their immediate needs.

In contrast, using authoritative commands may increase resistance or fear, while encouraging the patient to recount their history could overwhelm them in an already stressful moment. Isolating the patient is likely to increase feelings of fear or abandonment, which may exacerbate the situation rather than alleviate it. Thus, maintaining a non-threatening posture is key to promoting a safe and collaborative interaction during a psychiatric crisis.