Delirium in the brain-injured patient

Abstract

Purpose: To differentiate between expected behavior of a newly brain-injured person and an episode of delirium.

Methods: This article reviews the different types of delirium and predisposing risk factors that place patients at risk for developing delirium.

Findings: This case study illustrates how delirium can mimic expected behaviors seen in patients with traumatic brain injuries and emphasizes the importance of assessing for risk factors of delirium.

Conclusions: Clinicians can easily misdiagnose delirium. Nurses should assess every patient for signs and symptoms of delirium, using a standardized tool, such as the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) or Cognitive Test for Delirium (CTD).

Clinical relevance: Improved education on the risk factors for and symptoms of delirium is necessary for the rehabilitation nurse to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of this potentially life-threatening condition.

Keywords: Rehabilitation; head injury; practice implications.