A 76-year-old woman with Alzheimer disease becomes acutely confused after a urinary tract infection. She is agitated, pulling at lines and attempting ...

Question

A 76-year-old woman with Alzheimer disease becomes acutely confused after a urinary tract infection. She is agitated, pulling at lines and attempting to climb out of bed. Non-pharmacologic measures have failed. According to Canadian delirium care principles, what is the most appropriate pharmacologic option?

Accepted Answer

Low-dose antipsychotic such as haloperidol for severe distress or risk of harm

Answer

High-dose benzodiazepine as first-line

Answer

Long-acting opioid to settle agitation

Answer

No treatment; allow family to restrain her physically

Answer

Continuous infusion of propofol on the ward

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Delirium management