data processing deficits and alterations in cerebral hemodynamics - Sheet1

Question 1

What is delirium?

Answer 1

Temporary, acute mental confusion that can be life-threatening.

Question 2

What are the three classifications of delirium?

Answer 2

Hyperactive, hypoactive, or mixed.

Question 3

How long does delirium typically last?

Answer 3

1-7 days, but it can persist longer and become chronic.

Question 4

How is delirium different from dementia?

Answer 4

Delirium has a sudden onset, while dementia progresses gradually.

Question 5

What are the risk factors for delirium?

Answer 5

Older males, history of stroke, depression, dementia, cognitive impairment, or substance use.

Question 6

What mechanisms contribute to delirium?

Answer 6

Impairment of cerebral oxidative mechanisms, hypoperfusion, neurotransmitter abnormalities (e.g., cholinergic deficiency, excess dopamine), proinflammatory state, cortisol excess.

Question 7

What are some possible causes of delirium inside of the hospital?

Answer 7

Alcohol and drug abuse, medication side effects, polypharmacy (these are also outside), sleep deprivation, unfamiliar environments, sensory overload/deprivation, emotional stress, pain, restraint use.

Question 8

What are the manifestations of delirium?

Answer 8

Hypoactivity or lethargy, hyperactivity, agitation, hallucinations, misinterpretation, impulsiveness, inability to concentrate, disorganized thinking, irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, restlessness, “picking” behavior, confusion.

Question 9

What is “sundowning”?

Answer 9

Increased confusion at night.

Question 10

How is delirium diagnosed?

Answer 10

Through history and physical exam, lab tests (e.g., UA, thyroid tests, liver function tests, alcohol/drug screen), head CT/MRI, and the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) in ICUs.

Question 11

What is cerebral edema?

Answer 11

A net accumulation of water in brain tissue due to trauma, infection, hemorrhage, tumor, ischemia, infarct, or hypoxia.

Question 12

What are the harmful effects of cerebral edema?

Answer 12

Distortion of blood vessels, displacement of brain tissues, and herniation.

Question 13

What mechanisms lead to cerebral edema?

Answer 13

Increased permeability of capillary endothelium or damage to brain cells.

Question 14

How is cerebral edema diagnosed?

Answer 14

Through history and physical exam, CT, or MRI.

Question 15

What is hydrocephalus?

Answer 15

A condition characterized by excess CSF in the cranial vault, subarachnoid space, or both, leading to increased ICP.

Question 16

What mechanisms lead to hydrocephalus?

Answer 16

Increased CSF production, obstruction in the ventricular system, or impaired absorption of CSF from the subarachnoid space.

Question 17

What are the manifestations of hydrocephalus?

Answer 17

Rapid onset or slow progression, “Megamind” appearance in children, bulging fontanelles, decline in consciousness, memory, and cognition, history of falling, poor concentration, and indifference.

Question 18

How is hydrocephalus diagnosed?

Answer 18

Head CT or MRI.

Question 19

What are herniation syndromes?

Answer 19

Shifting of brain tissue from high-pressure to low-pressure areas, which can affect brain function and lead to collapse of ventricles.

Question 20

What are common manifestations of herniation syndromes?

Answer 20

Poor concentration, drowsiness leading to loss of consciousness, pupillary changes, Cheyne-Stokes respirations, hemodynamic instability, hypercapnia.