Mr Simmons

 

What are the predisposing factors for delirium in older patients?

• Advanced age

• Preexisting dementia, depression

• Medications: polypharmacy, potential side effects of medications

• High comorbidity

• Decreased oral intake : dehydration, malnutrition

• Infection: sepsis, UTI, pneumonia

• Acute cardiac, pulmonary or intracranial events

• Metabolic derangements :hypo-hyperglycemia, hypoxia, hypercarbia, hypo-hyperthyroidism, hypo-hypernatremia, hypercalcemia

• Sensory impairment : visual, hearing

• Functional impairment in ADLs

• Substance abuse: alcohol, illicit drugs

• Uncontrolled pain: fracture or trauma

• Urinary retention, fecal impaction

• Chronic renal or hepatic disease

• Use of physical restraints

• Use of a bladder catheter

• Environmental changes

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