Delirium versus dementia distinction and geriatric psychiatric management scenarios tested on USMLE Step 2 CK.
30 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is the typical onset speed of delirium?
- Acute, developing over hours to days
- What is the typical onset speed of dementia?
- Gradual, developing over months to years
- How does the course of delirium typically present over the day?
- Fluctuating, often worse at night
- What is the hallmark cognitive deficit in delirium?
- Impaired attention and a fluctuating level of consciousness
- Is delirium usually reversible?
- Yes, it is usually reversible once the underlying cause is identified and treated
- Is dementia usually reversible?
- No, it is usually irreversible and progressive
- What EEG finding is characteristic of delirium?
- Diffuse slowing of background activity
- What is the most common precipitant of delirium in hospitalized elderly patients?
- Infection, such as a urinary tract infection
- What is the single strongest risk factor for developing delirium?
- Pre-existing dementia
- What is the first-line pharmacologic treatment for severe agitation in delirium when nonpharmacologic measures fail?
- A low-dose antipsychotic, such as haloperidol
- Why should benzodiazepines generally be avoided when treating delirium?
- They can worsen confusion and sedation
- What is the preferred treatment for delirium tremens, unlike delirium from most other causes?
- Benzodiazepines
- Which subtype of delirium, hypoactive or hyperactive, is more commonly missed by clinicians?
- Hypoactive delirium
- What is 'sundowning'?
- Worsening confusion and agitation in the evening or nighttime, seen in delirium and dementia
- What is the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) used for?
- A bedside tool to diagnose delirium