Delirium

Question 1

what is Delirium

Answer 1

Clinical syndrome characterised by disturbed consciousness, cognitive function or perception.

Question 2

Who is most at risk of delirium

Answer 2

Over 65 
Post surgery 
Depression
change of environment 
dehydration 
infection 
sensory impairment 
malnutrition

Question 3

what are the 3 categories of delierium

Answer 3

hypoactive, hyperactive, mixed

Question 4

Hyperactive delirium symptoms

Answer 4

agitation 
restless
sleep disturbance 
vivid dreams 
hallucinations 
paranoia

Question 5

hypoactive delirium symptoms

Answer 5

sleepyness
lack of motivation
reduced movement
less apetite

Question 6

Implaications of delirium

Answer 6

More frequent hospital admissions
longer length of stay
increased mortality
co-morbidity

Question 7

What are the delirium assessment methods

Answer 7

Mini mental state examination
Confusion assessment method
or 4AT

Question 8

what are the causes of delirium

Answer 8

PINCHME
Pain
Infection
Constipation
Hydration
Medication
environment

Question 9

what interventions can you take for delirium

Answer 9

bring in a family member
orientate the patient to person, place and time
look for physical needs ie. water, eating and drinking, sleeping and preventing falls
Fluid balance chart
Stool Chart
Food Chart
ensure medications are on time and taken

Question 10

what are the treatment options for behavioural issues linked to delirium

Answer 10

If all non-pharmacology interventions have failed prescribe haloperidol at the lowest dose for 1 week