Delirium vs. Major vs. Mild Neurocognitive Disorder

Question 1

Delirium

Answer 1

Delirium is likely not tested on the exam, but it could be set as the wrong answer. Delirium has a rapid onset marked shift in someone’s awareness process. Often due to having taken a medication or due to some medical problem that is causing a biochemical change. Memory impairment, executive functioning, language impairments, and sometimes delusions and hallucinations. short lasting (a few hours or maybe a day).

Question 2

Major Neurocognitive Disorder

Answer 2

Formerly referred to as dementia. With the two diagnoses on a continuum. Major - serious issues with attention, executive function, cognition, memory and interactions, and perceptual motor skills. Lose their ability to function normally. serious decline that will require accommodation.

Question 3

Mild Neurocognitive Disorder

Answer 3

Mild- a precursor to major. Decline in functioning, but still able to maintain their independence. Be aware that an elderly person experiencing depression may have issues with their memory. The difference with depression, they are aware of memory loss.