Délirium Flashcards
What is delirium?
Delirium is an acute, fluctuating change in mental status characterized by confusion, disorientation, and an inability to focus.
Name one common cause of delirium.
Infections, medications, substance withdrawal, metabolic imbalances.
What are the two main types of delirium?
Hyperactive delirium and hypoactive delirium.
Fill in the blank: Delirium is often mistaken for ________.
dementia or psychiatric disorders.
What is the hallmark feature of delirium?
Fluctuating levels of consciousness.
True or False: Delirium can be resolved with appropriate treatment.
True
List one symptom of hyperactive delirium.
Agitation, restlessness, or hallucinations.
What can exacerbate delirium in elderly patients?
Polypharmacy or multiple medications.
Fill in the blank: Delirium often develops over a ________ period.
short
What is the first step in managing delirium?
Identifying and treating the underlying cause.
True or False: Delirium can lead to increased mortality.
True
What does the term ‘hypoactive delirium’ refer to?
A state of reduced activity and lethargy in patients with delirium.
Name a non-pharmacological intervention for delirium.
Reorientation, creating a calm environment, or ensuring adequate hydration.
Fill in the blank: Delirium can result from ________ disturbances.
metabolic or electrolyte
True or False: Delirium can present with both cognitive and perceptual disturbances.
True
What is the significance of early detection of delirium?
It can lead to better outcomes and reduced complications.
What is the recommended approach for managing agitation in delirium?
Use of non-pharmacological strategies first, then consider medications if necessary.
Fill in the blank: Delirium is characterized by a disturbance in ________.
attention and awareness.
True or False: Delirium can occur in patients with no prior cognitive impairment.
True
What is one pharmacological treatment option for severe agitation in delirium?
Antipsychotics such as haloperidol.
Name a common symptom of delirium.
Disorientation or confusion.
Fill in the blank: Delirium can be triggered by ________ events.
stressful or traumatic
List one environmental modification that can help prevent delirium.
Providing adequate lighting and minimizing noise.
What is a key difference in the presentation of hypoactive versus hyperactive delirium?
Hypoactive is characterized by lethargy, while hyperactive presents with agitation.
True or False: Delirium is a medical emergency.
True
What is the role of hydration in preventing delirium?
Dehydration can contribute to the onset of delirium.
Fill in the blank: Delirium can be a side effect of ________ medications.
certain
What should be monitored in patients recovering from delirium?
Cognitive function and potential recurrence.
What does the term ‘reorientation’ mean in the context of delirium?
Helping the patient understand time, place, and person to reduce confusion.
List one common misconception about delirium.
That it only occurs in older adults.
What is the role of the healthcare team in managing delirium?
To collaborate in diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care.
True or False: Delirium often resolves on its own without intervention.
False
What cognitive function is most affected by delirium?
Attention.
Fill in the blank: Delirium can be a sign of ________ underlying health issues.
serious
What is a potential long-term effect of delirium in older adults?
Increased risk of dementia.
What is the typical duration of delirium?
Hours to days, but can last longer depending on the cause.
True or False: Delirium is always associated with a clear and identifiable cause.
False
Nommer les manifestations cliniques du délirium.
Apparition rapide : quelques heures à quelques jours
- Changements de l’état de conscience
- Diminution de l’attention
- Désorientation dans le temps + espace
- Présence d’hallucinations (surtout visuelles)
Décrire les formes de délirium.
Délirium hyperactif : agité, halluciné
Délirium hypoactif : calme, somnolent mais désorienté (moins détecté)
Possibilité d’une forme mixte de délirium : hyperactif et hypoactif au cours de la même journée
Délirium : Soins courants pour les hallucinations
- Rassurer le client pour diminuer l’anxiété
- Assurer un environnement clame et limiter les stimuli pour favoriser le repos
Délirium : Soins courants pour agitation/agressivité
1) Encourager les membres de la famille à rester auprès du client
2) Diminution du bruit
3) Trouver la cause/besoin non comblé
4) Trouver une mesure alternative
