Acute Confusion (Delirium)

Acute Confusion (Delirium)

Delirium is defined as a transient, usually reversible, cause of cerebral dysfunction and manifests clinically with a wide range of neuropsychiatric abnormalities. It can occur at any age, but it occurs more commonly in patients who are elderly and have compromised mental status.

Signs and Symptoms

* Hallucinations

* Fluctuating levels of consciousness

* Dysphasia

* Dysarthria

* Tremor

* Asterisks in hepatic encephalopathy and uremia

* Motor abnormalities

* Clouding of consciousness

* Difficulty maintaining or shifting attention

* Disorientation Illusions

Diagnostic Tests

* Mental Status Assessment- The doctor assesses awareness, attention and thinking. This assessment can be performed through conversation, screenings and checklists, including mental state, confusion, perception, and memory.

* Physical Examination- Physical exam, checking for dehydration, infection, alcohol withdrawal and many other problems.

* Neurological Examination- Check the patient’s vision, coordination, and reflexes

* Urine Test- Can determine if patient has a UTI, which is a main factor that leads to acute confusion

Treatment

Non-pharmacological strategies are the first-line treatments for all patients with delirium

* Clocks and calendars to help patient stay oriented

* Provide a calm comfortable environment.

* Reminders of current events

* Involvement with family members

* Adequate lighting in patient room

* Opportunities to stay mobile

Pharmacological Medications

* Haloperidol oral

* Haldol inj

* Ativan inj

* Lorazepam inj

Many other different medications can be prescribed

Risk Factors

* Age

* Smoking

* Genetics

* High Blood Pressure

* High Cholesterol

* Obesity

* Poor diet

Complications

* General decline in...