Delirium, Depression and Dementia
Delirium is characterized by the rapid onset of impaired cognition, altered attention, and disturbed psychomotor behavior. It is a common, serious, life-threatening condition in older adults, and may be the first sign of an acute illness. Although it is usually transient and reversible, delirium results in increased morbidity and mortality, and greater healthcare costs. Risk identification and early recognition are key steps in successful delirium prevention and management. The timely and accurate diagnosis of delirium is challenging. Too often, delirium is either unrecognized or mistaken for other neuropsychiatric conditions such as dementia and depression. If you see a change in thoughts, feelings, or behaviors—think delirium!
This module will provide a comprehensive overview of delirium and describe its epidemiology, common risk factors and etiologies, clinical manifestations, assessment techniques, and prevention and management strategies. The presentation will also highlight key features that distinguish delirium from dementia and depression.
Consider Delirium!
Featuring Dr. Stewart Bond, Assistant Professor at the Connell School of Nursing.
Further Resources:
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center ICU Delirium and Cognitive Impairment Study Group
- The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP)
- Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario Best Practice Guidelines: Screening for Delirium, Dementia, and Depression in the Older Adult
- Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario Best Practice Guidelines: Caregiving Strategies for Older Adults with Delirium, Dementia, and Depression
- Delirium: A Sudden Change in Mental Status: University of Maryland GERI Ed Programs
- Delirium Geriatric Nursing Resources for the Care of Older Adults Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing
- Selected List of References
Additional BC Talks Aging Modules: