What is an early warning sign that a behavioral emergency patient may become violent?

Nervous pacing can indeed be an early warning sign that a patient experiencing a behavioral emergency may become violent. This behavior often indicates heightened anxiety or agitation, reflecting internal distress that may lead to a loss of control. When individuals pace nervously, it suggests they are feeling overwhelmed and may be struggling to manage their emotions, which can escalate into potentially violent behavior if their feelings are triggered or not properly addressed.

The other options do not indicate a potential for violence in the same way. Sudden calmness can sometimes signal a moment of clarity but can also precede violent behavior, as it may suggest someone has decided to act. Excessive laughter might indicate disassociation or coping with distress but not necessarily a direct precursor to violence. Consistent eye contact may be a sign of engagement or confrontation, but it alone does not indicate potential violence without other accompanying behaviors. Therefore, nervous pacing stands out as a more reliable warning signal in this context.