Autistic Man Falling Through the Cracks: Advanced Patient Transport and the "Pop-up" Recovery Ward

Area of Science:

• Medical Retrieval
• Aeromedical Services
• Mental Health Transport

Background:

• Elective patient transport presents unique risks compared to emergency transfers.
• Managing patients with complex comorbidities like autism, anxiety, and obesity requires specialized protocols.

Observation:

• A 19-year-old autistic patient with severe social anxiety, agoraphobia, and morbid obesity required relocation.
• The retrieval team faced challenges including continuous risk elevation and prehospital sedation.

Findings:

• The patient exhibited aggressive and combative behavior necessitating ketamine/propofol sedation.
• Successful sedation and recovery occurred within a private property setting prior to transfer.

Implications:

• This case demonstrates the feasibility of safely relocating complex mental health patients via aeromedical services.
• Effective prehospital sedation and risk management strategies are crucial for successful elective patient transport.