Risk Factors

No single cause of acute confusion/delirium has been identified.

Many different medical conditions can increase the risk of delirium:

• A significant illness or surgical procedure
• Depression
• Electrolyte disturbances
• Use of multiple medications, or addition of new medications
• Use of an indwelling catheter or physical restraints
• Exposure to alcohol or specific medications such as benzodiazepines
• Pain or emotional distress
• Sustained sleep deprivation
• Admission to a hospital or an intensive care unit