Psychiatric Approach to Delirium with Dr. Timothy Lee

The podcast explores the complexities of delirium, defining it as an acute change in a person's sensorium, affecting orientation and cognition. Dr. Timothy Lee, Loma Linda Residency Program Director, distinguishes between hyperactive and hypoactive delirium, noting hypoactive delirium is often missed due to its less dramatic presentation. The discussion covers evaluation methods, including orientation questions, short-term memory tests, concentration assessments, and clock drawing. Common causes of delirium are examined systematically, from head trauma and stroke to infections, thyroid imbalances, and medication side effects, particularly anticholinergics and benzodiazepines. The importance of identifying and treating underlying causes, such as UTIs or liver dysfunction, is emphasized, alongside the understanding that delirium may persist even after the initial cause is addressed.