Risk factors for delirium 4 , 5 Predisposing factors :
• Over 65 years of age
• Dementia , previous delirium or other cognitive impairment
• Frailty
• Vision and / or hearing impairment
• Comorbidities ( e . g . heart , lung or kidney disease )
• Multiple medications
• Previous alcohol / substance misuse
Precipitating factors :
• Malnutrition
• Dehydration
• Medications , particularly sedatives
• Infection
• Pain
• Urinary retention or constipation
• Hypoxia
• Electrolyte disturbances ( e . g . serum sodium levels )
• Any serious illness or major operation
© Dietitian Connection 33 Infuse | October 2021