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Delirium — ABFM Board MCQ

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ModerateMental healthDeliriumABFM Board

An 82-year-old man has acute confusion and fluctuating attention 3 days after starting diphenhydramine for sleep. Family says he was independent and oriented last week. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Stop deliriogenic medications and evaluate for reversible causes

Delirium is acute and fluctuating; anticholinergic medications are common contributors and reversible causes should be sought.

Reference: American Family Physician clinical reviews and AAFP guidance: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp.html