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Delirium and infection — DGM MCQ

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EasyDeliriumDelirium and infectionDGM

A 91-year-old woman in a care home develops acute confusion, cough and fever. She is inattentive and more sleepy than usual. Chest examination reveals right basal crackles. Current medicines include donepezil and amlodipine. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: B — Assess and treat likely pneumonia while using non-pharmacological delirium care

Delirium with fever and focal chest signs needs assessment and treatment of pneumonia plus supportive delirium measures. Dementia progression is slower, antipsychotics alone miss the cause, confusion is not expected, and psychiatric transfer is not first-line for medical delirium. Delirium is a clinical emergency because the cause is often treatable.

Reference: NICE CG103