Delirium is
a fluctuating syndrome characterized by inattention, altered level of
consciousness and acute global cognitive impairment. There are three forms of
delirium, hypoactive, hyperactive and mixed forms, which fluctuate between the
hyperactive and hypoactive phases. The mixed forms account for 52% of cases,
highlighting the fluctuating course of a delirium. The incidence of postoperative
delirium in older patients is estimated between 20 and 50%. Moreover, among
older patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU), the incidence can
reach 70 to 87%. Delirium is associated with a significant increase in
morbidity and mortality, a higher risk of admission to a long-term care
facility and higher healthcare costs. Although delirium can be reversed through the treatment of its underlying causes, many patients do not return to their
baseline cognitive level. In addition, in patients with dementia, cognitive
decline may be accelerated. Despite its clinical significance, postoperative
delirium is frequently under-recognized and misdiagnosed by nurses and
physicians. Fluctuating changes in cognitive function are commonly
misattributed to dementia, depression or old age.
1. The paragraph main concern is about
A) Understanding of the delirium by
health professionals
B) An increasing number of delirium
patients
C) Morbidity and mortality due to
delirium
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