Patients in custody represent a vulnerable group that poses unique ethical and logistical challenges for emergency physicians (EPs), who must navigate their constitutional right to healthcare.
EPs need to balance their duty to care for patients with security concerns, adhering to institutional policies and applicable laws, while also utilizing resources like legal counsel for support.
Communication with law enforcement is crucial to maintain safety, and EPs should use the least restrictive means of restraint, prioritize patient privacy, and recognize potential interactions between medical care and the legal system.