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confusion CONFUSION - Coggle Diagram
CONFUSION
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
Medical dictionaries define confusion as a state of disturbed consciousness, with disruption of thought and decision-making capacity. Confusion can be classified into two categories: acute confusion also called delirium and chronic confusion also called dementia.
Acute confusion often has an abrupt onset, over hours or days and is associated with an identifiable risk factor or cause.
Chronic confusion, in contrast, is a long-term, progressive, and possibly degenerative process and occurs over months or years.
MEDICATIONS
For short-term cases of mild confusion caused by nutritional imbalances, dehydration, or sleep deprivation, you might find relief in treatment at home.
If the cause of your confusion is low blood sugar, drinking a sweetened beverage or eating a small piece of candy may be all you need to relieve your symptoms. If your confusion is caused by dehydration, drinking water or electrolyte drinks can help relieve your symptoms.
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PATIENT EDUCATION
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Use a large clock and calendar. Encourage visits by family and friends. Place familiar objects in sight.
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INTERVENTIONS
Orient patient to surroundings, staff, necessary activities as needed. Present reality concisely and briefly. Avoid challenging illogical thinking—defensive reactions may result.
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Give simple directions. Allow sufficient time for patient to respond, to communicate, to make decisions.
Provide for safety needs (e.g., supervision, siderails, seizure precautions, placing call bell within reach, positioning needed items within reach/clearing traffic paths, ambulating with devices).
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Identify, evaluate, and treat pain immediately.
Provide continuity of care when possible (e.g., provide the same caregivers, avoid room changes).
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