Learn about Delirium. Information for patients and families

Transcription

1 Learn about Delirium Information for patients and families

2 In this document you will find information about: What is delirium Signs Causes Treatment What you can do

3 What is delirium? Delirium is sudden confusion that causes changes in how a person behaves and thinks. Delirium can last anywhere from a few hours to weeks or months. Delirium is a medical emergency. People with delirium are at greater risk for other health problems. People with delirium may recover if delirium is managed. Delirium is very common in older adults who are in the hospital. Delirium may be hard to recognize because health care providers may not know how the person usually behaves and thinks. What causes delirium? Medical illness, such as infection Some medications Not eating, drinking or exercising enough Recent move to a new place or change in environment 3

4 What are the signs of delirium? Showing sudden confusion: not making any sense, or not knowing who they are or where they are Having a hard time paying attention Feeling restless, worried, angry, or hostile Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations) Thinking that other people are trying to cause them harm Falling asleep in the middle of eating, talking, etc Being forgetful * Please note: these signs tend to come and go, and may be worse at night. How is delirium managed? The health care providers will try to find the cause of the delirium by checking the person and doing some tests. Once the cause is found, the health care providers are better prepared to discuss treatment options. 4

5 What can you do to help? 1. Tell the health care providers about the sudden changes in how the person behaves and thinks. Why? Because the delirium may be a sign of another serious condition and may be managable. 2. Encourage the person to sleep well at night, eat healthy food, and drink plenty of water. Why? Because eating well, having enough water, and getting a good sleep at night will help them recover. 3. Stay with the person when possible. Why? Because the person may find comfort with family and friends around. 5

6 4. Bring eyeglasses, hearing aids, and dentures into the hospital, if needed. Why? Not having these items may make the person even more confused, especially when the person is in a new place, such as a hospital. Talk to the staff about bringing these items to the hospital. 5. Speak slowly and softly, but do not whisper. Keep sentences very short and use simple words. Listen carefully and do not argue with the person. Why? The person may not understand what you are saying. But they may still understand the emotion being expressed. 6. After talking with the health care team, encourage the person to be active while in hospital. They can walk, sit up in a chair for meals and do bed exercises. Why? Staying in bed and not moving can lead to problems with breathing, skin breakdown, muscle loss, weakness, tiredness, disorientation and confusion. 6

7 More Questions? Call Telehealth Ontario Free access to a registered nurse - 24 hours a day tty: Notes:

8 St. Michael s cares about your health. For reliable health information, visit our Patient and Family Learning Centre, Room 6-004, 6 th floor, Cardinal Carter Wing, or find us online at This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Ask your healthcare provider about this information if you have questions. 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8 Canada stmichaelshospital.com Rev. April V3