Preparing for an appointment

If you're the relative or primary caregiver of a person with delirium, you'll likely play a role in making an appointment or providing information to the doctor. Here's some information to help you get ready for the appointment and know what to expect from the doctor.

What you can do

Before the appointment, make a list of:

• All medications, including all prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and supplements the person takes, and the dosages — noting any recent medication changes
• Names and contact information of any health care providers, therapists or other clinicians who provide care for the person
• The symptoms and when they started, describing all signs and symptoms and minor changes in behaviors that preceded the delirium symptoms, such as pain, fever or coughing
• Questions you want to ask the doctor

What to expect from the doctor

The doctor is likely to ask a number of questions about the person with delirium. These may include:

• What are the symptoms and when did they begin?
• Is there or was there a recent fever, cough, urinary tract infection or sign of pain?
• Is there or was there a recent fever, cough or urinary tract infection?
• Was there a recent head injury or other trauma?
• What were the person's memory and other thinking skills like before the symptoms started?
• How well did the person perform everyday activities before the onset of symptoms?
• Can he or she usually function independently?
• What other medical conditions have been diagnosed?
• Are prescription medications taken as directed? When did the person take the most recent dose of each?
• Are there any new medications?
• Do you know if the person recently used drugs or alcohol? Does the person have a history of alcohol or drug misuse? Is there any change in the pattern of use, such as increasing or stopping use?
• Has the person recently appeared depressed, extremely sad or withdrawn?
• Has the person indicated that he or she does not feel safe?
• Are there any signs of paranoia?
• Has the person seen or heard things that no one else does?
• Are there any new physical symptoms — for example, chest or abdominal pain?

The doctor will ask additional questions based on your responses and the person's symptoms and needs. Preparing and anticipating questions will help you make the most of your appointment time.