Your patient with pneumonia becomes combative and agitated two days post-admission. What is the most appropriate treatment?

When a patient with pneumonia becomes combative and agitated, particularly after a couple of days of hospitalization, it is often indicative of underlying issues such as anxiety, delirium, or withdrawal symptoms that may arise in the acute care setting. In this scenario, using a medication that can safely and effectively manage agitation without causing excessive sedation or respiratory depression is crucial, especially given the patient's respiratory condition.

IV Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine that is commonly used in acute care to manage agitation and anxiety. It works by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, leading to a calming effect. This medication is particularly useful because it can be given intravenously, allowing for rapid onset of action, which is important in an acute setting where the patient's safety is a priority.

In contrast, IV Valium (diazepam) is less favorable in acute settings due to its longer half-life and potential for accumulation, particularly in older adults or those with liver impairment. PO Librium (chlordiazepoxide) is not appropriate as it is not as effective for immediate control of acute agitation compared to IV formulations. Lasix (furosemide) is a diuretic that would not address the central nervous