Episode 85 – Medical Clearance of the Psychiatric Patient

This episode of the Emergency Medicine Cases Podcast features a panel of experts discussing the medical assessment of psychiatric patients in the emergency department. The discussion covers the definition of medical clearance, the importance of a thorough history and physical exam, key historical clues for differentiating organic versus psychiatric illness, and physical exam pearls. The panel also addresses the controversial topic of lab tests and imaging, highlighting the need to avoid indiscriminate testing and to consider the potential for underlying medical conditions or medication side effects. The experts emphasize the importance of good communication and relationships between emergency physicians and psychiatrists to improve patient care and streamline the assessment process.