Casualties with an altered mental status often act (and react) inappropriately, and can even be a potential danger to themselves, first responders, and their unit, without being aware that their actions are improper.

Because of the possible threat this presents, responders must recognize when a casualty has an altered mental status and take steps to disarm the casualty and secure any communication equipment they may be carrying. Casualties are likely to resist this but will usually respond to reassurance that you are securing their equipment while you care for them and that their unit leadership will take responsibility for it.