Which patient group is contraindicated for the use of ketamine?

The use of ketamine is contraindicated in patients with a history of psychosis primarily due to its potential to exacerbate psychiatric symptoms. Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that can provoke vivid dreams or hallucinations, as well as alter perceptions of reality. For individuals with a pre-existing psychosis, the administration of ketamine may heighten these symptoms, leading to significant psychological distress or disorientation.

While ketamine is often used effectively for pain management or procedural sedation in various patient groups, its application in those with a history of psychosis presents risks that outweigh the benefits. Other patient groups, such as those aged 14 and older or with minor injuries, do not share the same contraindication since their conditions and treatment needs do not inherently put them at risk of worsening mental health outcomes from ketamine's side effects. Thus, careful consideration must be given to a patient's mental health history when determining the appropriateness of ketamine as a treatment option.