Module 2: Direct Comprehensive Primary Care in the LTC Setting
34 2.4.2 Delirium
Delirium: An acute state of confusion marked by changes in a person’s ability to focus, remember, remain alert & oriented and think clearly. Delirium is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY
- Seniors are 4X more likely to experience delirium due to co-morbid conditions that put them at higher risk
- Delirium may be reversed if treated quickly but if it persists, it can result in permanent disability or even death
- Signs of delirium may persist for 12 months or longer
- Mortality rates among hospitalized patients with delirium range from 22-76%
- Delirium is associated with a one-year mortality rate of 35-40%
In patients with dementia, delirium leads to poor health outcomes:
- Prolonged hospital stay
- Hospital readmission within 30-days
- Cognitive and physical decline
- Placement in LTC homes
- Death etc.[1][2][3][4][5]
Diagnosing Delirium:
- A crucial element for diagnosis is “knowing the person”
- Medical History: What has changed?
- Screening: Confusion Assessment Method (CAM)
- Acute changes in mental status AND fluctuating course
- Inattention
- Disorganized thinking
- Altered level of consciousness[6]
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