Could you help me answer this questionIf an older adult in y

Could you help me answer this question...If an older adult in your care presents with sudden onset of confusion, how does this influence your assessment? What risk factors and warning signs for delirium will you look for?

Solution

Sudden confusion in older adults is mostly likely to result from hypoxia. This can occur under the following conditions:

1). Sudden attack of asthma

2). Other respiratory problems

3). Cardiovascular problems such as stroke

Other causes include, confusion induced by hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, hypovolemia, certain medications such as opiates, digoxin, alcohol poisoning and alcohol withdrawal can also cause confusion.