Delirium Flashcards
(7 cards)
1
Q
Causes of Delirium
A
Drugs/Dehydration Electrolyte imbalance Level of Pain Infection/inflammation (post surgery) Respiratory failure Impaction of faeces Urinary retention Metabolic disorder/ MI
2
Q
Hyperactive delirium
A
Increased confusion
Hallucinations/delusions
Sleep disturbance
Less co-operative
3
Q
Hypoactive delirium
A
Poor concentration
Less aware
Reduced mobility/movement
Reduced appetite
4
Q
Diagnose Delirium
A
CAM: 1+ 2 + 3/4
- Acute onset and fluctuating course
- Inattention (distractible, cannot communicate)
- Disorganised thinking (illogical, rambling)
- Altered consciousness (hypo-hyperalert)
5
Q
Onset of delirium
A
Sudden
6
Q
Before prescribing haloperidol, what should you do first?
A
Do ECG first (QTc interval)
7
Q
When can you prescribe lorazepam in delirium?
A
If antipsychotics are contraindicated eg: Parkinson's disease Lewy Body dementia Seizures Elongated QTc >470ms