DiagnosisA health care provider can diagnose delirium based on medical history and tests of mental status. The provider also will consider factors that may have caused the disorder. An exam may include: Show
TreatmentThe first goal of delirium treatment is to address any causes or triggers. That may include stopping certain medicines, treating an infection or treating an imbalance in the body. Treatment then focuses on creating the best setting for healing the body and calming the brain. Supportive careSupportive care aims to prevent complications. Here are steps to take:
MedicationsIf you're a family member or caregiver of someone who has delirium, talk with the health care provider about medicines that may trigger the symptoms. The provider may suggest that the person avoid taking those medicines or that a lower dose is given. Certain medicines may be needed to control pain that's causing delirium. Other types of medicines may help calm a person who is agitated or confused. Or medicines may be needed if the person is showing distrust of others, is fearful or is seeing things that others don't see. These medicines may be needed when symptoms:
When symptoms resolve, the medicines are usually stopped or are given in lower doses. Clinical trialsExplore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. Coping and supportIf you're a relative or caregiver of someone who is at risk of delirium, you can take steps to prevent an episode. If you take care of someone who is recovering from delirium, these steps can help improve the person's health and prevent another episode. Promote good sleep habitsTo promote good sleep habits:
Promote calmness and orientationTo help the person remain calm and aware of their surroundings:
Prevent complicating problemsTo help prevent medical problems:
Caring for the caregiverCaring for a person with delirium can be scary and exhausting. Take care of yourself too.
Organizations that may provide helpful information include the Caregiver Action Network and the National Institute on Aging. Preparing for your appointmentIf you're the relative or primary caregiver of a person with delirium, you'll likely play a role in making an appointment or providing information to the health care provider. Here's some information to help you get ready for the appointment and know what to expect. What you can doBefore the appointment, make a list of:
What to expect from the doctorA health care provider is likely to ask several questions about the person with delirium. These may include:
The provider may ask additional questions based on your responses and the person's symptoms and needs. Preparing for these questions helps you make the most of your time with a provider. Oct. 14, 2022 Which intervention would the nurse include when planning care for a patient with delirium?Nursing interventions for patients with delirium include the following: Assess level of anxiety. Assess client's level of anxiety and behaviors that indicate the anxiety is increasing; recognizing these behaviors, nurse may be able to intervene before violence occurs. Provide an appropriate environment.
Which is the most effective intervention for patients with delirium?Interventions that have been shown to reduce the incidence of delirium in at-risk hospitalized patients include repeated reorientation of the patient to person and place, promotion of good sleep hygiene, early mobilization, correction of dehydration, and the minimization of unnecessary noise and stimuli.
Which nursing intervention is the highest priority for a client with delirium?Preventing delirium from occurring is the most efficacious intervention. Identifying patients at risk for delirium and taking special precautions to prevent delirium is crucial. Non-modifiable risk factors include a history of an underlying neurodegenerative disorder such as dementia and increasing age.
What is the treatment of choice for delirium in the elderly?Benzodiazepines are the treatment of choice for delirium tremens and delirium associated with benzodiazepine withdrawal.
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