English: What is delirium? Delirium is a sudden disturbance in mental abilities that can last for hours to days. Some patients experience hyperactive symptoms and some patients experience hypoactive symptoms, whereas some experience both. This video describes the symptoms, pathophysiologic theories, and important risk factors and ways to prevent episodes of delirium.

Sources: Maldonado, J. R. (2008). Pathoetiological model of delirium: a comprehensive understanding of the neurobiology of delirium and an evidence-based approach to prevention and treatment. Critical Care Clinics, 24(4), 789–856, ix. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ccc.2008.06.004 http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/288890-overview?pa=m65tSMZGbvnh3tvPL5rA6hRw0q48f1xley2tzBNlaBhCCBZBxQ%2Bw8GfQmbQ0omw2VrJxKJt4DRD8mxYr6kYfOw%3D%3D#a6 Francis, J. & Young, GB., Diagnosis of delirium and confusional states. In: UpToDate, Post, TW (Ed), UpToDate, Waltham, MA, 2017.

Francis, J. Delirium and acute confusional states: Prevention, treatment, and prognosis Diagnosis of delirium and confusional states. In: UpToDate, Post, TW (Ed), UpToDate, Waltham, MA, 2017.