Page 33 - PCPA Winter 2023 Bulletin Magazine

For example, An officer encountering an individual with symptoms suggestive of schizophrenia would
not attempt to diagnose the individual. Instead, they would detail their observations in a report, noting
behaviors such as the individual speaking to unseen entities, reacting to auditory hallucinations, or
displaying disorganized thought patterns. This approach ensures accurate communication without
overstepping into the realm of clinical diagnosis.
Beyond Semantics: The Real Impact on Patrol Response
The debate surrounding terms like 'excited delirium' does not substantially change the fundamental
approach of patrol officers. Across the Commonwealth, officers will persist in applying their training
and experience, emphasizing the use of clear, direct language that steers clear of medical jargon and
remains within the scope of their law enforcement responsibilities. Additionally, they will continue to
implement procedures that are designed to enhance the likelihood of achieving the most positive
outcomes in their interventions. This consistent approach underlines the commitment of officers to
effective, respectful, and situation-appropriate responses, regardless of the evolving terminology in
the field.
In both their radio communication and reporting, officers should prioritize descriptive communication
that paints a clear picture of the situation without venturing into medical diagnoses. For instance, in
radio communication, an officer might relay that the individual is “displaying extreme agitation,”
“sweating,” and “not responding to verbal commands”. This type of communication ensures that
essential information is effectively relayed to responding units and EMS, facilitating an informed and
coordinated approach. Such approaches may include but are not limited to employing de-escalation
techniques; having EMS staged nearby to evaluate the individual after they are taken into custody;
and/or having officers trained in crisis intervention respond to provide specialized expertise.
Similarly, in their written reports, officers should employ the same type of descriptive language to
document the incident accurately. A report might read, "Subject exhibited extreme physical
restlessness, profuse sweating despite cool temperatures, and a lack of responsiveness to
communication efforts." This approach ensures that the report is factual and objective, providing a
clear and detailed account of the observed behaviors without implying a medical diagnosis.
Ultimately, the shift away from using terms like 'excited delirium' does not necessarily signify a
fundamental change in our response to such incidents. Instead, it represents an alignment of
terminology with evolving perspectives in public health and safety. The key takeaway is the
consistency of our response protocols, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the community and
individuals in crisis.
Aspirant Consulting Group
For Pennsylvanian Law Enforcement. By Pennsylvania Law Enforcement.
For example, An officer encountering an individual with symptoms suggestive of schizophrenia would
not attempt to diagnose the individual. Instead, they would detail their observations in a report, noting
behaviors such as the individual speaking to unseen entities, reacting to auditory hallucinations, or
displaying disorganized thought patterns. This approach ensures accurate communication without
overstepping into the realm of clinical diagnosis.
Beyond Semantics: The Real Impact on Patrol Response
The debate surrounding terms like 'excited delirium' does not substantially change the fundamental
approach of patrol officers. Across the Commonwealth, officers will persist in applying their training
and experience, emphasizing the use of clear, direct language that steers clear of medical jargon and
remains within the scope of their law enforcement responsibilities. Additionally, they will continue to
implement procedures that are designed to enhance the likelihood of achieving the most positive
outcomes in their interventions. This consistent approach underlines the commitment of officers to
effective, respectful, and situation-appropriate responses, regardless of the evolving terminology in
the field.
In both their radio communication and reporting, officers should prioritize descriptive communication
that paints a clear picture of the situation without venturing into medical diagnoses. For instance, in
radio communication, an officer might relay that the individual is “displaying extreme agitation,”
“sweating,” and “not responding to verbal commands”. This type of communication ensures that
essential information is effectively relayed to responding units and EMS, facilitating an informed and
coordinated approach. Such approaches may include but are not limited to employing de-escalation
techniques; having EMS staged nearby to evaluate the individual after they are taken into custody;
and/or having officers trained in crisis intervention respond to provide specialized expertise.
Similarly, in their written reports, officers should employ the same type of descriptive language to
document the incident accurately. A report might read, "Subject exhibited extreme physical
restlessness, profuse sweating despite cool temperatures, and a lack of responsiveness to
communication efforts." This approach ensures that the report is factual and objective, providing a
clear and detailed account of the observed behaviors without implying a medical diagnosis.
Ultimately, the shift away from using terms like 'excited delirium' does not necessarily signify a
fundamental change in our response to such incidents. Instead, it represents an alignment of
terminology with evolving perspectives in public health and safety. The key takeaway is the
consistency of our response protocols, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the community and
individuals in crisis.
Aspirant Consulting Group
For Pennsylvanian Law Enforcement. By Pennsylvania Law Enforcement.
For example, An officer encountering an individual with symptoms suggestive of schizophrenia would
not attempt to diagnose the individual. Instead, they would detail their observations in a report, noting
behaviors such as the individual speaking to unseen entities, reacting to auditory hallucinations, or
displaying disorganized thought patterns. This approach ensures accurate communication without
overstepping into the realm of clinical diagnosis.
Beyond Semantics: The Real Impact on Patrol Response
The debate surrounding terms like 'excited delirium' does not substantially change the fundamental
approach of patrol officers. Across the Commonwealth, officers will persist in applying their training
and experience, emphasizing the use of clear, direct language that steers clear of medical jargon and
remains within the scope of their law enforcement responsibilities. Additionally, they will continue to
implement procedures that are designed to enhance the likelihood of achieving the most positive
outcomes in their interventions. This consistent approach underlines the commitment of officers to
effective, respectful, and situation-appropriate responses, regardless of the evolving terminology in
the field.
In both their radio communication and reporting, officers should prioritize descriptive communication
that paints a clear picture of the situation without venturing into medical diagnoses. For instance, in
radio communication, an officer might relay that the individual is “displaying extreme agitation,”
“sweating,” and “not responding to verbal commands”. This type of communication ensures that
essential information is effectively relayed to responding units and EMS, facilitating an informed and
coordinated approach. Such approaches may include but are not limited to employing de-escalation
techniques; having EMS staged nearby to evaluate the individual after they are taken into custody;
and/or having officers trained in crisis intervention respond to provide specialized expertise.
Similarly, in their written reports, officers should employ the same type of descriptive language to
document the incident accurately. A report might read, "Subject exhibited extreme physical
restlessness, profuse sweating despite cool temperatures, and a lack of responsiveness to
communication efforts." This approach ensures that the report is factual and objective, providing a
clear and detailed account of the observed behaviors without implying a medical diagnosis.
Ultimately, the shift away from using terms like 'excited delirium' does not necessarily signify a
fundamental change in our response to such incidents. Instead, it represents an alignment of
terminology with evolving perspectives in public health and safety. The key takeaway is the
consistency of our response protocols, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the community and
individuals in crisis.
Aspirant Consulting Group
For Pennsylvanian Law Enforcement. By Pennsylvania Law Enforcement.
33
WINTER 2023 BULLETIN