Acute Confusional State (Delirium) Flashcards
1
Q
which patients get it?
A
Common in elderly in hospital
2
Q
RF?
A
> 65yrs
Dementia/previous cognitive impairment
Hip fracture
3
Q
Mx?
conservative?
medical?
A
Treat underlying cause
o Reorientate the patient: explain where they are etc.
o Encourage family/friends visits.
Failing that, antipsychotics (haloperidol) or lorazepam if contraindicated
4
Q
how do you differentiate delirium from dementia?
A
delirium: acute onset
dementia: gradual onset
