Module 2: Direct Comprehensive Primary Care in the LTC Setting
35 2.4.3 Types of Delirium
| Hypoactive | Hyperactive | Mixed |
|
●Occurs in 25% of cases
●Withdrawn, lethargy, unexplained sedation
●Inability to focus while awake
●Decreased mobility
●May be misdiagnosed as depression
|
●Occurs in 30% of cases
●Restlessness (increased walking/pacing)
●Agitation/aggression
●Delusions/hallucinations
|
●Occurs in 45% of cases
●Exhibit symptoms of both hypoactive and hyperactive
●Switching between both states over the course of the day or from one day to another[1]
|
Typical Causes of Delirium:
- Medical condition
- Substance intoxication
- Medication side effect[2]
Treatment/Management:
- Manage underlying conditions
- Supportive medical care
- Managing symptoms of delirium
- Nonpharmacologic interventions
- Antipsychotic medication
- AVOID Restraints[3][4]
