Delirium
Neurocognitive Disorders
Neurocognitive Disorders develop much later than Intellectual disability and other learning disorders, which are believed to be present at birth. When the brain is damaged, the effects are irreversible, accumulating until learning, memory or consciousness are obviously impaired.
Neurocognitive disorder is a progressive and degenerative condition marked by gradual deterioration of a range of Cognitive abilities including memory, language, planning, organizing, sequencing and abstracting information.
Neurocognitive Disorders are further reviewed in two classes: Dilirium and Major or Mild Neurocognitive Disorder
About Dilirium:
The disorder known as dilirium is characterized by impaired consciousness and cognition during the course of several hours or days. Delirium is one of the earliest recognized mental disorders. Delirium is estimated to be present in approximately 20% of older adults who are admitted into acute care facilities such as emergency rooms. It is most prevalent among old adults, people under gone medical procedures, cancer patients, People with acquired immune deficiency syndrome [Aids]
SYMPTOMS
- People appear confused.
- Disoriented.
- Out of touch with their surroundings.
- Cannot focus or sustain their attention on even the simplest tasks.
- Marked impairments in memory and language.
- Couldn't remember basic facts such as own name.
- Frequently restless, particularly at night.
- In severe case, speech is rambling and incoherent.
CAUSES
? Dilirium due to general medical condition.
? Substance -induced delirium.
? Delirium due to multiple Etiology.
? Dilirium not otherwise specified.
TREATMENTS
• Pharmacological
- Benzodiazepines
- Antipsychotics
• Psychosocial
- Presence of ??rsonal objects
- Inclusion in treatment decisions
Find Treatment Program here
REFERENCE
David H. Barlow, BOSTON UNIVERSITY
V. Mark Durand, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA- ST. PETERSBERG
2. ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY: 9TH EDITION
Davision G.C., Neale, J.M. and Kring, A.M.
3. ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY
Allov. L.B.: Riskind, J.H. and Manos, M.J.
4. ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY AND MODERN LIFE. NY: Harper and Collins. 2000
Carson. R.C. and Butcher. N.J.