What should be done first if a patient is uncooperative in the emergency department?

When dealing with an uncooperative patient in the emergency department, the priority is to assess the situation and follow safety protocols. This involves evaluating the patient's condition, understanding the reasons behind their behavior, and ensuring the safety of both the patient and staff.

By conducting an assessment first, healthcare providers can determine whether the uncooperative behavior is due to pain, anxiety, a medical condition, or another underlying issue. Additionally, following safety protocols ensures that appropriate measures are taken to prevent any potential harm to the patient or others in the emergency department. This approach fosters a more controlled environment and allows for appropriate interventions to be planned, such as calming techniques or medical treatment, which can help de-escalate the situation effectively.

Discharging the patient immediately without understanding the context of their behavior could lead to inadequate care and potentially increase the risk of harm. Contacting family members may be appropriate later in the process but is not the immediate step to address the patient’s current state safely. Ignoring the patient until they calm down is insufficient, as it can escalate the situation further and compromise safety. Hence, assessing the situation first is the most appropriate and effective response.