ABSTRACT
This chapter considers all the patient's symptoms and all the information available to doctors and assesses the symptoms, signs and information given using this to choose the appropriate remedies for the problem and offers extra information where available and appropriate. Confusion is usually a manifestation of an organic disorder of one or more causes. It often presents as forgetfulness and may be exacerbated by being in a strange environment. Confusional states and delirium are usually reversible, but there might not be time for improvement in a terminally ill patient. Multiple organ failure can cause delirium and is irreversible. Confusion often has more than one cause, and this should be kept in mind. Pain and urinary retention may exacerbate the problem, but the patient may not be able to report the symptoms. Determining the patient's mental state and what may be causing confusion will help to clarify the treatment options and possible outcomes of treatment.
