Abstract
Transporting acutely psychotic patients is hazardous because of the risks they present
to themselves, escorting staff, and aircraft. Various strategies have been proposed,
usually involving combinations of sedating drugs and physical restraint. Thus far,
none guarantees safe retrieval while completely mitigating risks. This case proposes
the use of propofol as an alternative to more traditionally used agents. An infusion
facilitated the uneventful and safe retrieval of a patient who had demonstrated resistance
and tolerance to other drugs. Discussion is also presented on the potential utility
of propofol for the retrieval of acutely psychotic patients.
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© 2012 Air Medical Journal Associates. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
