What is the risk involved if a psychotic patient is forced to comply?

Forcing a psychotic patient to comply can lead to increased levels of agitation and distress. When a patient is coerced into compliance, they may feel threatened or cornered, which can trigger a defensive response. This heightened emotional state can escalate to aggression or violence as a means of self-protection or to reassert their autonomy.

In psychosis, a person's perception of reality is altered, which means that any forced interaction can be interpreted in ways that are unpredictable or alarming to them. Therefore, instead of leading to cooperation, such an approach can worsen their mental state and lead to behavior that they otherwise might not exhibit if given the opportunity to engage voluntarily. It’s important to approach psychotic patients with understanding, empathy, and techniques that promote cooperation rather than through force or compulsion.