- In this first stage, the Delirium Code will be implemented in 100 IMSS units and will gradually be extended to the rest of the hospital network.
- Delirium is preventable in more than half of patients with non-pharmacological strategies.
- Older adults are the most susceptible because they are losing their ability to respond to infections, lack of control of diabetes, surgeries, major injuries or others.
As part of the care programs for beneficiaries, the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) announced the start of the “Delirium Code” strategy. In this first stage, it will be implemented in 100 Second and Third Level Hospitals to care for this reversible and acute disorder that affects the cognition of people over 70 years of age.
What is the IMSS Delirium Code?
The head of the Division of Clinical Excellence in the Coordination of Health Innovation, Dr. Juan Humberto Medina Chávez, explained that the The main risk factors that condition delirium are chronic neurological disorders such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease. Also infections or metabolic alterations and various degenerative conditions.
He stressed that the Institute’s efforts are aimed at raise awareness about the importance of preventing and detecting this condition in a timely manner to minimize its harmful effects.
Medina Chávez explained that delirium is preventable in more than half of patients with non-pharmacological strategies such as admission to hospital. It is also reversible, as long as the aggravating circumstances are identified in a timely manner and are treated comprehensively.
“Treating the cause that triggers it resolves the mental state that it had prior to this. That is to say, the infection is corrected, the delirium is improved and this is an indicator that the patient is progressing with the correct treatment”.
The coordinator of the GeritrIMSS Program said that delirium can occur at home, during hospitalization, in the emergency room or in the operating room. As well as in long-term residences, so it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
What to do in case of delirium?
He recommended that if a person has a picture of delirium at home, they should be taken to the Emergency Department. On the other hand, if you are hospitalized, you must notify the staff who care for you and while you receive medical attention, remain calm, control her, talk to her, change the conversation, and reassure her, because the event is transitory.
Dr. Medina Chávez from the IMSS specified that the Delirium Code also trains caregivers and family members about preventive measures. They are explained what the alert data are and it is recommended that the patient receive sunlight, guide him regarding day and night, keep him hydrated and well fed, take his medications regularly and avoid isolation.
Specialists recommend avoiding sudden changes that in frail people or people over 80 years of age is very feasible, that with small differences such as a change of address or a stay in a hospital may present delirium, regardless of the disease, whether mild or severe.
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