Depression, delirium, and dementia in the elderly patient.

Perioperative nurses commonly care for patients with changes in mental status, especially elderly patients. Three common mental status disorders in the elderly are delirium, depression, and dementia. Each of the disorders can have similar clinical presentations. Despite similarities, the appropriate nursing interventions may vary significantly. Interventions discussed in this article focus on the etiology of the presenting problem and the nursing interventions that will promote the most positive outcome for the patient.