Final answer:
The consequences of delirium include long-lasting cognitive effects, decreased oral intake, pressure ulcers, and aspiration, but not pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism is a separate condition and not a direct result of delirium.
Step-by-step explanation:
The consequences of delirium can include a variety of cognitive and physical challenges. Delirium may lead to long-lasting cognitive effects, which can manifest as disruptive memory loss, confusion regarding time or place, difficulty with planning and executing tasks, poor judgment, or personality changes. In addition, individuals with delirium might experience a decreased oral intake due to a diminished ability to eat or drink, resulting in weight loss, disturbances in acid-base balance, and dehydration. This condition can also result in the development of pressure ulcers due to immobility, as well as increased risk of aspiration which could cause aspiration pneumonia. However, pulmonary embolism is not a direct consequence of delirium, but rather a separate medical issue that may occur independently of delirium. Pulmonary embolism is related to blood clots in the lungs and is not typically caused by the symptoms or effects of delirium.