Table of contents
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Management
. Source: The Little ICU Book by Paul Marino (2008)
Introduction
- Defined as a cognitive disorder characterized by attention deficits and either disordered thinking or an altered level of consciousness.
- MUST be abrupt onset and fluctuating clinical course
- The most characteristic features are acute onset and fluctuating clinical course.
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(Source: "The Little ICU Book" by Paul Marino 2008)
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Two types:
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Hypoactive Delirium
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Hyperactive Delirium
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Management
- Discontinue drugs that can cause delirium
- Avoid using drugs including: (make agitation worse!)
- Opioids
- Benzodiazepines (only for alcohol withdrawal seizures)
- Antipsychotic Drugs
- Haloperidol (0.5-2mg PO or IV q4-6h PRN)
- See Psych --> Antipsychotic Drugs Section
Comments