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