Abstract
Delirium is a clinical syndrome characterized by transitory changes in level of consciousness that has an acute onset and fluctuating course and is associated with cognition and behavior changes. It tends to occur secondary to organic causes (infections or drugs) and is very prevalent in hospitalized older adults. It is classified as hypoactive, hyperactive, or mixed. Its diagnosis is fundamentally clinical. Several rapid diagnostic tools have been validated (4AT, CAM) which complement the clinical assessment. Multicomponent non-pharmacological interventions have been demonstrated to be the most effective in both its prevention and its treatment. The key point in treatment is treating the triggering causes. Pharmacological control could be justified when the patient's or healthcare team's safety is compromised or when symptoms cause the patient great emotional stress. Neuroleptics are the most used drugs. The drug with the most favorable side effects profile according to each patient's characteristics should be chosen and they should be used for the shortest possible time.
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