Delirium- a common geriatric problem

One of the 13 Common Geriatric Problems screened by MediSort:

Delirium - Delirium is a common indicator or nonspecific symptom of a variety of acute, treatable illnesses, characterized by fluctuating states of consciousness, disorientation, decreased environmental awareness, and behavioral changes. The onset may vary; however, it usually develops rapidly, over a few days or even hours. The most common causes are: infection, fever (e.g., from urinary tract or respiratory tract infection); metabolic disorder; and medications. Anticholinergic medications are important causes of acute and chronic confusional states. Recent studies have suggested that the total burden of anticholinergic drugs may determine development of delirium rather than any single agent.