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3 Cards in this Set
- Front
- Back
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Define delirium
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An etoliogically non-specific syndrome characterised by sudden onset of fluctuating disturbances of consciousness, attention and thinking
Other affected modalities include: perception, memory, emotion, sleep cycle. Delirium may be classified as hyperactive and hypoactive. |
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List causes of delirium
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1) Infections
2) Electrolyte imbalances: U&Es, hypoglycaemia, liver/renal failure 3) Cerebrovascular accident, head injury 4) Exacerbation of heart failure 5) Drugs: opiates, anticonvulsants, sedatives, L-dopa, post-GA, anticholintergics, hypontics, analgesics |
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Management of delirium
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1) History, collateral history, MMSE
2) Physical exam and obs chart to find underlying cause 3) Check drug chart and discontinue appropriate drugs 4) Behavioural management :- Avoid over/understimulation maximise vision and hearing explain, re-orientate, minimise changes clear space and bring relatives 5) Bloods:- FBC, TFT, U and Es, glucose, calcium, CRP, B12, folate MSU ECG Wound swab CXR 6) Liase with psychiatrist 7) consider lorazepam (0.5mg) or haloperidol |
