Delirium is a rapid change in brain function which affects the ability to focus attention. Often confused with dementia, delirium can fluctuate over the course of a day with periods of clarity followed by increased confusion. It is caused by many issues that patients can experience while hospitalized. Those most at risk for developing delirium are:
- Critically-ill patients (in the ICU)
- Older adults greater than 70 years of age
- Patients post-surgery
- Those with previous cognitive impairment/dementia, multiple medical conditions, sensory impairment, or immobility while hospitalized
However, more than 60% of patients with delirium are not recognized by health care systems. Hypoactive delirium (appearing to be sedated) is difficult to diagnose, and more consistently care providers think a patient is just sleepy or depressed. Hyperactive delirium (appearing aggressive or restless) is more recognizable but can be misdiagnosed as dementia. But how can delirium be prevented? Read on to learn more about this often misunderstood condition as part of World Delirium Awareness Day. (more…)