skip to main content

Palliative delirium — DGM MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateEnd-of-life carePalliative deliriumDGM

An 88-year-old man with terminal cancer becomes agitated and frightened at night. He has urinary retention and severe pain. Family want comfort-focused care at home. Current medicines include morphine and cyclizine. What is the most appropriate management?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Treat reversible discomforts and use proportionate medication if distress persists

Palliative delirium care should address reversible distress such as pain and retention, then use proportionate symptom medication if needed. Ignoring agitation, restraint, cognitive enhancers and psychiatric transfer do not fit comfort-focused care. Even near death, reversible causes of distress should be considered.

Reference: NICE NG31; NICE CG103