Delirium and Dementia

1.     Describe pathophysiology of Delirium and Alzheimer’s Dementia (AD).Neuritic plaques, neurofibrillary tanglesDeposits of B-amyloid proteinNeuronal degeneration/lossVascular Dementia2.     Describe diagnostic testing and nursing assessment required for the patient with Delirium and AD.Medical history, cognitive status, physical exam.Lab tests, CT, Pet Scans3.     Assess and differentiate between delirium and dementia.ConfusionAssessment Method CAM or RADARCognitive assessment4.    Recognize and name symptoms of Delirium and AD.Cognitive changesBehavior and emotional responses.Changes in ADL and IADL FunctionProgression of symptomsCaregiver strain/burnout5.    Determine a nursing diagnosis in a patient with Delirium and AD in a case study.Determine underlying cause of deliriumAltered thought processesRisk for injuryWanderingSocial isolationAlteration in nutritionSelf-Care deficitsCatastrophic Reaction6.     Apply appropriate nursing interventions to respond to specific patient problems related to AD.RNAO best practice guidelinesCommunication techniquesEnvironmental modificationsSafety techniquesADLsCaregiver education and support