Delirium is an acute medical condition which can be treated but more importantly prevented. Symptoms include increased confusion, changes in thinking and reduced attention span.

Delirium affects 1-10 patients within hospital affecting anyone at any age, older people, people with a dementia, suffered a hip fracture, treated in hospital as a consequence from a serious illness are at increased risk of delirium.

Delirium can be prevented by targeting potential causes which are commonly overlooked and the technology can support clinicians in their work around this.

If someone has a delirium we can support treating symptoms in the following way by condition

Pain – can provide a distraction and reduce anxiety
Infection– with associated pain, increased mobility, increase well being
Nutrition – changing environment, activity to stimulate hunger
Constipation – keeping active, promote stimulate hunger for a balanced diet
Hydration – keeping active, inducing thirst, social environment
Sleep – active in day, reduce anxiety, calming environment, relaxation
Medication – helping reduce stress and anxiety
Environment – supportive healing environment active/calm

People with delirium can present with many symptoms some of which can be very distressing for the person and other people observing.

Read article on ‘Recognising and preventing delirium’ (http://www.nice.org.uk)