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Changes in mental status
1Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island and Brown Medical School, 111 Brewster St, Pawtucket, RI 02860.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
|March 19, 2004
Summary
Delirium, a change in mental status in elderly hospitalized patients, can signal serious illness. Prompt identification and treatment by podiatric physicians can prevent severe complications.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Hospital Medicine
- Podiatric Medicine
Background:
- Change in mental status is a frequent symptom in older, hospitalized individuals.
- This change, often delirium, may indicate an underlying serious medical condition.
- Delayed diagnosis and treatment of delirium can result in severe complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the role of the podiatric physician in preventing delirium in hospitalized older adults.
- To emphasize the importance of early detection and intervention for delirium.
Main Methods:
- Maintaining a high index of suspicion for delirium in at-risk patients.
- Conducting thorough clinical assessments to identify potential causes of mental status change.
- Identifying older patients in the hospital setting who are particularly vulnerable to delirium.
Main Results:
- Podiatric physicians can play a crucial role in the preventative care of delirium.
- Proactive assessment and risk identification are key strategies.
Conclusions:
- Podiatric physicians can prevent numerous cases of delirium through vigilance and comprehensive assessment.
- Early recognition and management are essential for improving outcomes in hospitalized older adults.