Which of the following is a sign of excited delirium or drug-induced psychosis?

• A. Knowledge of the suspect history
• B. Disorientation
• C. Unusual or psychotic behavior
• D. Elevated pulse

Answer: (B)

Disorientation reflects acute changes in mental status, which is a hallmark of excited delirium and drug-induced psychosis. When someone is disoriented, they have confusion about where they are, what’s happening, or who they are, signaling a cognitive disturbance rather than a normal or just physically agitated state. This observable mental status change is a central indicator of delirium and helps distinguish it from other conditions that might raise heart rate or show odd behavior but don’t involve clear confusion or loss of situational awareness.

Elevated pulse can accompany agitation or stimulant effects, but it isn’t specific to delirium and can occur for many reasons. Unusual or psychotic behavior is a sign as well, but disorientation is the more direct and reliable cue for acute mental status alteration in these contexts. Knowledge of the suspect’s history isn’t a sign of delirium; it’s background information rather than the person’s current mental state.

If you observe disorientation, prioritize de-escalation and ensure medical evaluation, as excited delirium can progress rapidly and carries serious risks.