Thanks to Dr David Swetman for his presentation on the delirious patient.
Delirium Presentation
Take home points:
- delirium is under-recognized in ED
- careful attention to supportive care, prior to sedation, is in the patient’s best interests ie. pain relief, hydration, bowel care, regular medications (especially diabetic medications, Parkinsonian medications) and analgesia
- be familiar with the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) and other delirium identification tools which are available via the Western Health intranet