• Risk factors for violence in the ED include overcrowding, prolonged stays in the ED, increasing numbers of patients with mental health disorders (especially without proper facilities for them), understaffing, inadequate training, rising rates of substance abuse, absence of a pre-existing relationship between staff and patients, and the lack of privacy. • Cues to escalating behavior include yelling or cursing and aggressive verbal and physical behavior. Pacing, avoiding eye contact, and being destructive to their space suggest escalating behavior. • Sedation may be necessary. Commonly used drugs include benzodiazepines, haloperidol/droperidol, and ketamine. • Sedated patients may require intubation. Clearly, all patients given sedation who do not respond easily may require monitoring. • Chemical restraints are preferable to physical restraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]