Recognizing Signs and symptoms of delirium

Describe recognizing signs and symptoms of delirium. specific individual) when delegating tasks intervene2. Differentiate dementia vs delirium. 9. Employ Closed-Loop Communication (acknowledgment

3. Identify the risk factors for delirium, of receipt of the message and status) to acknowledge

4. Identify appropriate intervention for a patient with communications from others. delirium. Safety Psychomotor The student will be able to: The student will be able to perform a neurological assessment- Administer and maintain specific protecting interven- ment on a patient with a change in mental status. tions with attention to the safety of the client and healthcare professional. Affective. Demonstrate a safe environment with attention to The student will be able to: hazards to healthcare providers, visitors, and the client.

1. Reflect upon performance in caring for a patient with Includes body mechanics, tripping hazards, and equip- delirium. ment issues.

2. Identify what worked well during the scenario.

2. Demonstrate attention to national patient safety goals.

3. Identify areas that need improvement Includes patient identification standards, effective

4. Reflect on overall feeling about the scenario. communication among healthcare providers, and safe

5. Discuss feelings related to working as a team member. medication administration. 6. Develop confidence in caring for a patient with delirium.

3. Demonstrate attention to standard precautions. Includes 7. Do self-reflective evaluation. hand washing, infection control measures, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed. Communication Leadership and Management/Delegation The student will be able to: 1. Communicate effectively with healthcare team members. The student will be able to: 2. Communicate with a confused patient.

1. Identify tasks that can be legally, ethically, and safely del- 3. Communicate effectively with the family members. egated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP), licensed

4. Use SBAR when communicating with healthcare team practical nurse (LPN), or registered nurse (RN). members. 2. Identify and prioritize patient’s needs in the care of a

5. Work collaboratively as part of the healthcare team. patient with delirium.

6. Accurately and succinctly document assessments, interventions, and evaluations. OVERVIEW OF PROBLEM Pathophysiology Delirium Delirium is characterized by an acute change in mental status Definition with impaired attention, disorganized thinking, or incoher- An acute onset of disturbance in consciousness with ent speech; clouded consciousness; perceptual disturbances; decreased ability to focus, sustain, or shift attention; a change sleep-wake problems; psychomotor agitation; or lethargy in cognition and perceptual disturbances (Source: American and disorientation.

This condition is produced by changes in Psychiatric Association [2000]. Diagnostic and statistical manu- brain chemistry or tissue by metabolic toxins, direct trauma, al for mental disorders [4th ed.]. Washington, DC: APA.) drug effects, or withdrawal