How can a resident’s medication trigger a confusion episode?

A resident's medication can trigger a confusion episode due to side effects that affect cognitive function. Many medications have known side effects that can impair mental clarity, memory, or attention. For example, certain sedatives, anticholinergics, or medications used for pain management can result in confusion as a primary side effect, especially in individuals who may already be vulnerable due to age or other health conditions.

Understanding how medications can interfere with cognitive processes is essential for medication technicians. By recognizing that this is a potential outcome of certain medications, technicians can monitor residents closely for signs of confusion and report any such changes to healthcare professionals. This proactive approach is vital to ensure residents receive the appropriate interventions if a medication's side effects impact their cognitive health.