A 68-year-old man with metastatic prostate cancer is agitated, confused and distressed in the last days of life despite non-drug measures. The team su...

Question

A 68-year-old man with metastatic prostate cancer is agitated, confused and distressed in the last days of life despite non-drug measures. The team suspects terminal delirium. What is the most appropriate first-line pharmacological management?

Accepted Answer

Subcutaneous Midazolam or an appropriate benzodiazepine/antipsychotic via syringe driver

Answer

High-dose intravenous fluids to correct possible dehydration

Answer

Start high-dose steroids

Answer

Prescribe long-term benzodiazepines for home use after discharge

Answer

No pharmacological treatment is appropriate in terminal delirium

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Terminal agitation

A 68-year-old man with metastatic prostate cancer is agitated, confused and distressed in the last days of life despite non-drug measures. The team suspects terminal delirium. What is the most appropriate first-line pharmacological management?