Module 7.3: Older Person's MH

Question 1

Define Delirium and describe characteristic of the disorder, potential risk factors.

Answer 1

Delirium is an acute organic disturbance of higher cerebral function associated with impaired ability to attend the environment. Acute decline in attention & cognition.

Characterised by:

• acute confessional state / disturbances in consciousness
• reduced awareness , reduced ability to sustain concentration (clouding of consciousness)
• changes in cognition - perceptual disturbances, memory deficit, disorientation, language disturbance, sleep-wake cycle.

Risk factors:

• Dementia
• Illness /infection
• Visual impairment
• Depression
• Alcohol related health concerns
• Overdose of medications

Question 2

outline the nursing interventions & treatment for delirium.
(4)

Answer 2

1) Investigate underlying cause
* monitor vital signs
* Fluid/ food intake

2) Consider nocturnal disturbances
* Medications as charted

3) Behavioural interventions
* keep safe
* gentle approach
* regular assurance

4) Continuity of care
* multidisciplinary team approach
* family / guardians/ carers

Question 3

Define Dementia. outline the characteristics

Answer 3

Dementia is an umbrella term covering vast variety of neurocognitive impairments that interfere with memory & function.

Characterised by:

• chronic & progressive cognitive decline
• disturbances of brain functions ( memory, thinking, comprehension, abstract thought, language & judgement).

Question 4

Describe how the older person with depression may present. Signs & symptoms across the biopsychosocial model.

Answer 4

Characterised by:

• excessive preoccupation with physical symptoms
• Low motivation, lack of energy
• Irritability, pace, worry, anxious

Biological / physical:

• sleep disturbance
• loss of appetite
• electrolyte imbalance
• weight loss/gain
• fatigue
• constipation

Psychological:

• pessimistic
• sadness /crying
• lack of interest
• obsessive worrying
• low self-esteem
• suicidal ideation

Social:

• relationships may suffer
• uncommunicative
• withdrawn / isolated
• neglect

Question 5

What might be some of the reasons that MH problems such as depression in older adults remain undetected?

Answer 5

All of the signs & symptoms can be seen as common signs of aging, or dementia therefore can be left undiagnosed and untreated. Older adults are less likely to ask for help.