Delirium Management in the Critic Geriatric Patient: An Updated Approach

Delirium or acute confusional syndrome is a common problem in geriatric patients, although its diagnosis often overlooked, especially hypoactive form. Risk factors for delirium are previous cognitive alterations and certain comorbidities, different environmental organic typical of critically ill patients. associated with increased short- long-term mortality, to the prolongation mechanical ventilation, prolonged stays Intensive Care Unit (ICU) hospital deterioration after discharge. In recent years, specific tools have been developed detection ICU. The implementation interventions on risk can reduce incidence hospitalized treatment it based identifying correcting underlying causes, establishing support measures and, sometimes, pharmacological control symptoms. Haloperidol first-line drug delirium, since experience atypical neuroleptics, such as olanzapine risperidone, well other drugs, insufficient be able make recommendations their use. Neuroleptics serious side effects that must taken into account. cases agitation, simultaneous use benzodiazepines propofol may necessary temporary protocolized manner, physical restraints.