Drug Aging
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Delirium is common, morbid and costly, especially among hospitalised elderly patients. Nonetheless, it remains under-recognised and often poorly managed. This article summarises the 5 key steps in the optimal management of delirium. ⋯ This evaluation will usually involve a careful history, medication review, physical examination and selected laboratory testing. The fifth, and most important, step is the management of the delirious patient. The key elements of management are treating the primary condition(s) leading to delirium, removing all treatable contributing factors, maintaining behavioural control, and supporting the patient and their family.