NUR 257 Midterm 3
- delirium definition
sudden, acute confusional status
-can be hyper or hypoactive (higher mortality) -is treatable; must act quickly to treat underlying cause -must know baseline of pt (can use chart or family) -is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY -can be reversible
underlying causes
usually infection (UTI or respiratory), meds, electrolyte imbalances, alcohol, drug use, withdrawn, surgery, sensory overload
assessment CAM treatment
treat underlying cause quickly (priority)
- depression
**most common affective mood disorder of old age
signs
- / 3
(subtle signs) GI complaints, fatigue, diminished memory, irritability, somat- ic complaints, sleep disturbances, restlessness, impaired attention span, suicidal ideation, can reduce quality of life and function
assessment
use GDS (geriatric depression scale) treatment
treat underlying conditions to alleviate depression meds
anticholinergenics
side effects of meds
cardiac/orthostatic symptoms (dizzy), can't see well, can't have bowel movements, no urine output, dry mouth, nausea
- takes up to 4-6 weeks for symptoms to diminish, should stay hydrated, change positions slowly
- alzheimers disease
-most common cause of dementia
-slower onset mild
subtle memory loss 2 / 3
moderate
more forgetful, can not conceal deficits, personality changes severe
may be immobile and require total care
-can no longer perform IADLs assessment
can use MMSE screening tool
medications
Cholinesterase inhibitors treatment
**interventions are aimed at promoting patient function and independence for as long as possible -promote safety -promote independence -reduce anxiety -improve communication -provide adequate nutrition and hydration -promote rest
- / 3