list six interventions which can be initiated in the emergency
department to reduce the likelihood of a patient developing delirium
Ensure a calm, quiet environment (reduce noise and overstimulation)
- Provide orientation cues (e.g., clock, familiar objects)
- Maintain hydration with IV fluids if needed and regular meals
- Avoid unnecessary medications (e.g., sedatives like benzodiazepines)
- Encourage family presence for reassurance
- Regularly assess and manage pain effectively
List four (4) patient factors that affect healing in elderly patients.
- co-morbidities (DM, PVD)
- impaired immune response
- reduced skin elasticity and collagen production
- poor nutritional status (protein def)
List two (2) benefits of a well-documented Advance Care Directive/Plan.
- Ensures patient’s wishes are respected regarding treatment preferences.
- Reduces decision-making burden on family or healthcare providers.
List six (6) non-pharmacological supportive measures to ensure excellent end-of-life care.
environment: private, comfortable
patient care: removal of monitoring or avoiding interventions. personal dignity (toileting care), gentle repositioning for pressure injuries
psychosocial: cultural and religious support
MDT input and approach
family: facilitate presence and involvement
List four (4) criteria that identify a patient as a potential organ donor.
- No maximum age, must be > 16y
- GCS less than or equal to 5
- Intubated / Ventilated
- Receiving end-of-life care
- Condition likely to cause irreversible cessation of all brain function (brain death)
- Condition likely to cause irreversible cessation of the circulation of blood in the body
(circulatory death) - Prior expressed wishes OR presence on organ donor registry
