014 – Delirium & Hospital Confusion

In This Episode:

Dr. K explains the basics of delirium, a state of worse-than-usual mental function that can affect up to 30-70% of older adults after surgery and during serious illnesses. She covers:

• Why delirium has been referred to as post-operative confusion or even ICU psychosis
• The story of her father’s delirium
• Why people often confuse delirium with dementia, and how the two conditions are related
• Why families often notice signs of delirium before doctors and nurses do
• 3 key reasons delirium is so important for us all to learn more about
• 10 things to know about delirium, including how it can be diagnosed, treated, and prevented

Related Resources:

• 10 Things to Know About Delirium
• Hospital Delirium: What to Know & Do
• How to Promote Brain Health
• Hospital Elder Life Program
• If ACE (Acute Care for Elders) Units Are So Great, Why Aren’t They Everywhere?
• 7 Common Types of Anticholinergic Drugs