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Postoperative delirium prevention — DGM MCQ

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ModerateDeliriumPostoperative delirium preventionDGM

An 83-year-old woman develops delirium after surgery. She has hearing impairment, no clock in the bay and has slept poorly. Observations are stable, pain is controlled and blood tests show no acute abnormality. What is the most appropriate management?

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

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Correct answer: A — Reorientation, hearing aid use, sleep hygiene and mobilisation

NICE delirium guidance emphasises multicomponent non-pharmacological prevention and management, including orientation, sensory aids, sleep and mobilisation. Sedating antihistamines can worsen confusion and falls. Delirium care is often environmental and nursing-led as much as medical.

Reference: NICE CG103