Delirium is a severe state of confusion. It often happens quickly and can come and go. It may involve changes in an individual’s thinking, attention, and perception. Most often this lasts for a short time.
Causes
Anyone can get delirium, but some people have a higher chance. The risk is higher for people who:
Are in the ICU
Have dementia
Are older adults
Have had surgery
Take certain medicines
Have hearing or vision problems
Delirium can happen for many reasons. Causes may include:
Severe illness
Infections
Not enough oxygen
Alcohol withdrawal
Certain medicines
Lack of sleep
Other treatments or procedures needed in the hospital
Signs of Delirium
The staff is trained to know and treat delirium. Signs of delirium may change from day to day. Patients may be confused or not act as usual. They may see or hear things that are not there. Some people are unable to think or speak clearly or pay attention. Others have trouble staying awake or mixing up days and nights.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of delirium. Treating the underlying cause of delirium will help it resolve more quickly. Hospital staff will remove any lines or drains that are not needed. They will also get patients out of bed and moving if able. Staff will try to limit or remove medicines that may add to the patient’s delirium.
What You Can Do
While staff provides a safe setting, you can help support your loved one to feel safe. If your loved one has a normal routine, please share this with the nurse. See below for other ideas that can help.
Provide a Calm Environment
Reduce noise by turning off the TV and radio in the evening.
Reduce use of electronics (i.e., TV, cell phone, laptop, tablet, gaming devices) that may emit blue lights in the evening.
Speak in a calm voice and use simple words to help your loved one know what is going on.
Be sure your loved one has hearing aids, glasses, or any other devices needed.
Bring in family photos or known items to give comfort.
Use good lighting. Keep the lights on during the day and into the early evening. This helps to prevent confusion of voices and sounds.
Promote good sleep practices. Encourage the patient to be out of bed during the day as much as possible. Limit daytime naps. Keep blinds open during the day and dim the lights at night.
Provide Comfort
Sit with your loved one. Delirium can be very scary. Your company can be very helpful.
Remind them of the day and date.
Talk about familiar things such as family, friends, and hobbies.
Bring electronic devices that allow your loved one to video chat and connect with those who are unable to visit.
When your loved one is confused, it is ok to say “yes, you are confused.” Let them know it will likely go away.
After the Hospital
Talk about delirium and what happened in the hospital. This can help people sort out which memories are true and those that are not. Reassure patients of their fears. Tell your primary doctor that you or your loved one had delirium in the hospital.
When your loved one goes home, the delirium should improve. It may take time to adjust from their hospital stay. Use the listed techniques to keep their care and daily routine the same.
Seeing your loved one with delirium can make you upset and leave you feeling helpless. Talk with the nurse or doctor about any concerns you may have or if you would like to know about other help. We are here to help you and your loved one.