Question

An 82-year-old woman with dementia is admitted with pneumonia. She becomes acutely confused, agitated at night and inattentive. Investigation suggests delirium superimposed on dementia. Which initial management strategy is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Address underlying causes, optimise sensory input and use non-pharmacologic measures such as orientation and mobilisation

Answer

Immediate high-dose antipsychotics for all delirious patients

Answer

Physical restraints as first-line

Answer

Ignore the confusion as it is expected in older people

Answer

Sedate with benzodiazepines to control agitation

Practice question

An 82-year-old woman with dementia is admitted with pneumonia. She becomes acutely confused, agitated at night and inattentive. Investigation suggests delirium superimposed on dementia. Which initial management strategy is most appropriate?