2. Chronic Confusion
May be related to
Alzheimer’s disease
Dementia
Possibly evidenced by
Decreased ability to interpret one’s environment
Decreased capacity for thought
Memory impairment
Disorientation
Behavioral changes
Personality changes
Altered interpretation
Response to stimuli
Desired Outcomes
Patient will have minimal confusion, cognitive impairment, and other dementia manifestations.
Patient will have stable, safe environment with routine scheduling of activities to decrease anxiety and confusion.
Patient will exhibit minimal or reduced confusion, memory loss, and cognitive disturbances, depending upon stage of AD.
Patient will be able to tolerate stimuli when introduced slowly in nonthreatening manner, with one item at a time.
Patient will be able to be distracted or use other techniques to avoid stressful situations that may cause aggressive, hostile behaviors or frustration.
Family will be able to utilize information effectively in dealing with patient with confusion with regard to limitations of stimulation and validation of patient’s thoughts.
Family will be able to utilize information to begin making decisions for long-term plans for patient.