1. Caring for Persons with Delirium
Mary J. Dyck, PhD, RN, LNHA
Associate Professor

2. Acute Confusion Etiology Outcomes
Physiologic, emotional, or environmental processes
Outcomes
Will be CAM negative.
Will be reoriented to the environment.

3. Acute Confusion ~ Interventions
Monitor neurological status.
Determine cause together with other caregivers.
Encourage visitation by significant others.
Remove stimuli.
Inform client of person, place, and time prn.
Use environmental cues for orientation.
Encourage use of aids
that increase sensory input.

4. Risk for Injury Etiology Goals/Outcomes
Altered ability to interpret the environment
Goals/Outcomes
Will be safe.

5. Risk for Injury ~ Interventions
Identify safety needs of the client.
Place identification bracelet on client.
Use protective devices.
Use notification devices.

6. Anxiety/Fear Etiology Expected Goals/Outcomes
Misinterpretation of environmental cues
Expected Goals/Outcomes
Prevent anxiety.
Relieve anxiety.

7. Anxiety/Fear ~ Interventions
Avoid touch and proximity.
Avoid unfamiliar situations.
Provide familiar caregivers.
Avoid frustrating patient by quizzing with orientation questions.
Decrease noise levels.

8. Other Diagnoses
Self-care Deficit
Impaired Social Interaction

9. Summary Medical Emergency Determine and treat cause.
Provide orientation.
Use environmental cues.
Encourage family visits.
Encourage the use of sensory aids.