Delirium Flashcards
1
Q
What is delirium?
A
An acute confusional state caused by disturbances to their brain function when they are ill or injured.
2
Q
What is hypoactive delirium?
A
Reduced appetite, quiet, sleepy, withdrawn, low mood, less likely to be detected as patients aren’t harder to manage so a higher mortality rate.
3
Q
What is hyperactive delirium?
A
Heightened arousal, restlessness, agitated, aggressive, hallucinations, emotional instability, increased activity, detected more quickly as patients are more challenging.
4
Q
What are some risk factors of delirium?
A
Multiple medications, pain, illness, age, trauma and poor hearing/eyesight.
5
Q
What are some symptoms of delirium?
A
Change in mood Change in alertness Agitation Drowsiness Hallucinations Delusions
6
Q
What can be used to treat delirium?
A
Identify/manage causes Ensure effective communication Involve family/friends Provide suitable environment Regular reviews and follow ups Only essential drug treatment
7
Q
What does the PINCHME assessment tool for delirium stand for?
A
Pain INfection Constipation Hydration Medication Environment
