Delirium Flashcards
1
Q
What is delirium?
A
An acute confusional state which is reversible and has an identifiable cause. It is a global impairment of cognition, attention, consciousness and psychomotor behaviour.
2
Q
What are the symptoms of delirium?
A
Confusion Reduced attention Reduced wakefulness Loss of orientation Can have hallucinations and delusions
(Worse at night and acute onset)
3
Q
Which drugs can induce delirium?
A
TCAs Antipsychotics Benzodiazepines Anticholinergics Opiates Diuretics Steroids Alcohol Recreational drugs and drug withdrawal
4
Q
Give examples of medical problems which commonly can cause delirium
A
Hypoxia UTIs Pneumonia Organ failure Hypoglycaemia Dehydration Constipation Burns Major trauma Pain Epilepsy Encephalitis
5
Q
Give 4 risk factors for delirium
A
Old age Pre-existing dementia Hip fracture Severe illness Unfamiliar environment Vision impairment Major surgery Sleep impairment
6
Q
How is delirium managed?
A
Treat underlying condition Fluids Control distressing symptoms Promote healthy sleep patterns Quiet ward Can use haloperidol
