In a hospitalized older adult with fever and new medications including an anticholinergic, what risk factor for delirium is involved and what is the priority nursing action?

• A. Acute illness with polypharmacy including anticholinergics; prioritize nonpharmacologic delirium prevention: reorientation, hydration, sleep, and review/avoid delirium-causing meds.
• B. Chronic disease management with minimal medication changes; focus on pharmacologic delirium treatment.
• C. Visual impairment is the only risk factor; use supplements.
• D. Sleep deprivation alone is sufficient to prevent delirium.

Answer: (A)