Medsurg nursing : official journal of the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses
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Delirium is a common but underdiagnosed problem among hospitalized older adults. Delirium in this population has serious consequences and can contribute to the patient's demise. Consequently, understanding the nature of delirium in older adults is essential for safe clinical management. The delirious older adult requires physiological and environmental support, protection, judicious administration of medication, and diligent nursing care.