Confusion among hospitalized elderly is not uncommon. An elderly patient enters the hospital with abdominal pain, seemingly alert and oriented. But several days later she becomes confused and agitated then enters a downward spiral that leads to a prolonged inpatient stay, loss of independence, and the need for institutional care. It’s an all-too-common scenario in hospitals but one that’s often avoidable, several experts said. Confusion or delirium in hospitalized patients, including those with dementia, can be prevented in most cases if hospital staff is
trained to recognize symptoms and act quickly. This course will attempt to review appropriate interventions to deal with patients with acute confusion and get them re-oriented.
Learning Objectives Taking care of Confused Patients
- Lists possible medical conditions that can lead to a change in mental status or confusion.
- Lists nursing interventions in caring for patients with acute confusion.
- Recognize that confused patients may compromise medical treatments or may be high risk for falls and may require restraints or one to one care.
- Recognize that patients with progressing Alzheimer’s/ Dementia will continue to have a deterioration in mental state that may not be reversed.
- Recognize that poor safety judgment or elopement should be considered when taking care of confused patients at home.