Question

An older adult patient who had surgery is displaying manifestations of delirium. What priority action would benefit this patient?

a. Check the chart for intraoperative complications.
b. Check which medications were used for anesthesia.
c. Check the effectiveness of the analgesics received.
d. Check the preoperative assessment for previous delirium or dementia.

Answer 1

The priority action that would benefit an older adult patient displaying manifestations of delirium after surgery is to check the preoperative assessment for previous delirium or dementia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct priority action that would benefit an older adult patient displaying manifestations of delirium after surgery is option d. Check the preoperative assessment for previous delirium or dementia.

Delirium is a common complication in older adults after surgery, especially those with preexisting cognitive impairments. By checking the preoperative assessment for previous delirium or dementia, the healthcare team can gather valuable information about the patient's baseline cognitive function and identify any risk factors for delirium.

Identifying the preoperative presence of delirium or dementia can help the healthcare team tailor the management and treatment plan for the patient, potentially resulting in improved outcomes and preventing further complications.