Confusion

Alternative names:

mental dysfunction

Home care:

A confused person should not be left alone. In order to ensure a confused person's safety, physical restraints may be required in some situations. A calm, quiet, and peaceful environment is recommended.

Visitors should always introduce themselves during every encounter with the confused person. Placing a calendar and clock near the confused person will help keep them oriented. Care givers should frequently reorient the confused person (talk to and confirm their location, and so on).

For sudden confusion due to low blood sugar, drink a sweet drink or eat a sweet snack. If the confusion lasts longer than 10 minutes, call the doctor.

Call your health care provider if:

• confusion has come on suddenly, is severe or persistent, or is accompanied by other symptoms.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

A history will be obtained, which will probably require the help of family members; and a physical examination will be performed.

Medical history questions documenting confusion in detail may include:

• type
  • Does the patient get days and nights mixed up (are they awake during their usual sleep time)?
  • Do they recognize people?
  • Do they know where they are?
  • Do they know the date and time?
  • Can they answer questions appropriately?

• time pattern
  • Is the person always confused?
  • Are there repeated episodes (recurrent)?
  • Is the confusion rapidly getting worse?
  • Does the confusion come and go (temporary episodes)?

• medical history
  • Has there been any recent illness?
  • Has there been a recent head injury?
  • Is the person diabetic?
  • Does the person have COPD, chronic bronchitis, or a similar lung disorder?

• other
  • What other symptoms are also present?

The physical examination will include a thorough evaluation of brain and nervous system function. Neurologic tests and cognitive tests may be performed and other tests may be indicated depending upon accompanying signs and symptoms.

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to confusion to your personal medical record.