Acute Confusion Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is acute confusion characterized by?

Inability to sleep

Consistent and clear cognition

Constant memory recall

Fluctuation in psychomotor activity (correct)

Acute confusion can evolve over a period of _ to _ days.

hours, days

Acute confusion can occur in any age group.

True

Name two factors that increase the risk for acute confusion.

Underlying brain disease, infection Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common goal for managing acute confusion?

Patient experiences increased episodes of delirium Signup and view all the answers

What is a hallmark feature of delirium?

Fluctuating cognition and behavior Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes an appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with acute confusion?

Provide calm and familiar surroundings Signup and view all the answers

Patients with acute confusion should be encouraged to increase their caffeine intake.

False Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their definitions:

Lack of motivation = Inability to initiate or sustain purposeful behavior Fluctuation in sleep-wake cycle = Altered patterns of sleep and alertness Delirium = Abrupt onset of changes in cognition and attention Sundown syndrome = Increased confusion during late afternoon or evening Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Acute Confusion Overview

Acute confusion refers to sudden, temporary disturbances in attention, cognition, and consciousness, often evolving over hours to days.
It can affect individuals of any age and may be caused by medical conditions, substance intoxication, or medication side effects.
Risk factors include pre-existing brain diseases (e.g., dementia, stroke) and precipitating factors like infections and medication.

Age over 60 increases risk.
Presence of dementia or alcohol/drug abuse can contribute to acute confusion.
Delirium may manifest in various forms, including febrile or toxic episodes.

Key Characteristics

Signs of acute confusion include:
- Fluctuation in psychomotor activity (e.g., tremors).
- Misperceptions and hallucinations (visual/auditory).
- Increased agitation, restlessness, and changes in sleep-wake cycles.
- Lack of motivation and inconsistency in cognitive function.

Goals and Expected Outcomes

Primary goals include:
- Reducing episodes of confusion.
- Restoring normal cognitive function and reality orientation.
- Encouraging patient understanding of contributing factors.
- Promoting involvement in daily living activities (ADLs).

Nursing Assessment Strategies

Identify underlying factors: substance abuse, recent medical history, infections, and environmental changes.
Conduct a comprehensive mental status examination considering behavior, cognition, and mood.
Monitor changes in mental status, noting any agitation or hallucinations, and assess for ‘sundown syndrome’ (increased confusion in the late afternoon).

Nursing Interventions

Focus on treating underlying issues (e.g., infections, substance abuse).
Provide orientation through reminders of surroundings and staff.
Create a calm environment to minimize sensory overload and confusion.
Facilitate communication through simple, clear instructions and reassurance.
Prioritize safety measures: supervision, avoiding restraints, and clear navigation paths.
Maintain normal nutritional and fluid balance, managing underlying health conditions.
Ensure continuity of care to familiarize the patient with caregivers and routines.
Develop family coping strategies and educate them on early signs of confusion to seek help promptly.

Description

Test your knowledge on the concept of acute confusion with these flashcards. This quiz focuses on the definitions, symptoms, and relevant terminology associated with this cognitive impairment. Perfect for nursing students and healthcare professionals.