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Delirium sensory impairment — DGM MCQ

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EasyDeliriumDelirium sensory impairmentDGM

A 92-year-old man is admitted with delirium and repeatedly appears frightened at night. His hearing aids are in a bedside drawer and his spectacles are broken. He is dehydrated but haemodynamically stable. Current medicines include furosemide and lansoprazole. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: C — Ensure hearing aids, spectacles, hydration and orientation cues

Sensory impairment, dehydration and disorientation worsen delirium, so correcting them is core non-pharmacological management. Darkness, removing familiar cues, routine sedation and delaying hydration can worsen delirium. Simple environmental measures can be as important as investigations.

Reference: NICE CG103