Identification and Management of Delirium in the Elderly

Identification and Management of Delirium in the Elderly is organized by College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists (CPNP).

Activity Dates: 06/01/2018 - 04/23/2021

Target Audience:
This course is designed for pharmacists and/or other healthcare professionals involved in the medication management of individuals living with psychiatric, neurologic and/or substance use disorders.

ACPE Contact Hours: 1.0

Description:
Delirium, an acute disorder of attention and cognition, affects up to 50% of hospitalized elderly and those with dementia are at a greater risk. Delirium is often misdiagnosed or under-recognized, and prolonged delirium can increase morbidity and mortality, institutionalization, health care expenditures, and may lead to permanent cognitive decline. Pharmacists that work with the elderly are in a key position to assist in recognizing symptoms of delirium and recommend safe treatment choices in this patient population. This session is designed to provide education in the prevention, recognition, and treatment of delirium in the elderly, particularly in patients with comorbid dementia.

Learning Objectives:
• Differentiate clinical features of delirium as compared with dementia in elderly patients.
• Evaluate a patient for risk factors for delirium.
• Design a treatment plan using non-pharmacologic methods to prevent delirium in an elderly patient.
• Evaluate the benefits and risks of antipsychotics in the management of delirium in an elderly patient.

Additional details will be posted as soon as they are available.