In delirium pain management, which approach is recommended?

In delirium pain management, which approach is recommended?

• A. Rely on sedatives first.
• B. Use antipsychotics for pain relief.
• C. Withhold analgesia.
• D. Use acetaminophen, not antipsychotics for pain.

Answer: (D)

In delirium, the priority is to treat pain with appropriate analgesia rather than sedating or using medications aimed at delirium symptoms. Acetaminophen is a safe, effective first-line analgesic for mild to moderate pain in older adults and has a minimal impact on cognition, making it a good choice in delirium without worsening confusion. Antipsychotics do not provide analgesia and come with risks such as sedation, extrapyramidal symptoms, and potential worsening of delirium, which can complicate care. Withholding analgesia is inappropriate because untreated pain can intensify agitation and delirium. Therefore, using acetaminophen for pain, rather than antipsychotics, is the best approach.

In delirium, the priority is to treat pain with appropriate analgesia rather than sedating or using medications aimed at delirium symptoms. Acetaminophen is a safe, effective first-line analgesic for mild to moderate pain in older adults and has a minimal impact on cognition, making it a good choice in delirium without worsening confusion. Antipsychotics do not provide analgesia and come with risks such as sedation, extrapyramidal symptoms, and potential worsening of delirium, which can complicate care. Withholding analgesia is inappropriate because untreated pain can intensify agitation and delirium. Therefore, using acetaminophen for pain, rather than antipsychotics, is the best approach.