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Analysis Of Delirium

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Delirium poses many risks to the elderly population. This condition has been associated with "increased mortality, long-term cognitive decline, and loss of autonomy" (Kukreja, Gunher, & Popp, 2015, p. 655). The course of delirium is acute, and without accurate differentiation and intervention, outcomes can be deleterious (Resmick, 2016). This research question will focus on exploring the care team's knowledge about delirium prevention and assessment and its contribution to outcomes. The boolean search was completed by using search phrases delirium, assessment tools, evidence-based practice, guidelines, elderly. The AND operator was used mostly to find information related to both search terms. This tactic was used to explore the …show more content…

According to Resnick (2016), there are recommendations of care that are supported by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). However, these guidelines are not enough. As a result, it becomes imperative to understand how to recognize delirium and develop a culture of care that consistently implements processes that prevent its occurrence. While the awareness and understanding of its impact can influence its recognition, a broader system-wide approach needs to become integrated into the daily practice of geriatric patients to sustain consistent outcomes and improvements in care. The treatment options should be prefaced with knowledge sharing and education surrounding the topic of delirium with the care team. Education will need to include assessment, prevention, and management (Trogrlic et al., 2015, p. 15). Assessment components will need to include an evidence-based tool that is appropriate for the population and applies to patients with and without cognitive impairments (Voyer et al., 2015). Preventive processes need to be taught, understood, and operationalized. This would include identification of reversible causes and risk factors, optimization of medications and elimination of inappropriate medications, integration of family, and team collaboration (Resnick, 2016). Management options will need to include treatment of electrolyte abnormalities, visual screening and correction for an identified impairments, ear aids, bowel

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