Delirium Tremens

[Jedi of Zen]

In my instuctor's lecture outline, under treatment measures for delirium tremens, there is a statement that says "Soft lighting - reduce shadows". In class, she said that this is to reduce the possibility of aggravating a pt's hallucinations.

This may seem like a trivial/stupid question, but to me "soft lighting" sounds like reduced lighting. Wouldn't that actually increase shadows?

Also, aside from benzos/meds, can you think of any other good interventions to use? I have from my notes and reading to orient the patient, talk them down, provide a low-stimulating/calm environment. But I was just wondering if there's anything more in particular that I'm missing. It just seems like there ought to be more that can be done, esp from a psych perspective. Or, maybe I'm just thinking too hard...

Thanks!

[tachybradyRN]

For the lighting, I would think "soft lighting" would mean a moderate amount of light but not so dark that the room is bathed in shadows. I would also agree with you that those all sound like appropriate interventions.

[morte, LPN, LVN]

the brighter the light, the sharper the shadows.....since this primarily a medical condition, not sure there is a lot of purely psych interventions, past what you mentioned