Delerium VS Dementia

Question 1

What is delirium?

Answer 1

An altered state of consciousness, attention and awareness is impacted. Has a sudden onset with a definitive starting point, and can last from days to weeks.

Question 2

What is dementia?

Answer 2

Affects mainly memory and other cognitive functions (processing thought and judgement. Has slower onset and is irreversible.

Question 3

Types of Dementia:

Answer 3

Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia (Blood flow to the brain is decreased, stroke)., Parkinson’s, Lewy body.

Question 4

S+S of delerium?

Answer 4

Confusion/ Disorientation, decreased ability to focus, delusions and mood changes.

Question 5

S+S of dementia?

Answer 5

Altered reasoning and problem-solving, depression, unable to complete tasks independently.

Question 6

Diagnosis/Assessment of dementia and delirium

Answer 6

Dementia Mini-Mental State Exam; Series of questions screening tool.
Delirium: Confusion assessment method (urine analysis).

Question 7

Management:

Answer 7

Dementia: Sensory modulation, distraction methods, rivastigmine (memory+ motivation)
Delerium: Ural (prevent acidic urinary tract), Antibiotics, fluids.