Case 9 of 40
Check Parkinson’s medicine timings when delirium develops
Example case for staff education
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Mr Barker, 77, has Parkinson’s disease and becomes confused and frightened.
Read the case transcript
Page 1
Panel 1
Mr Barker, 77, has Parkinson’s disease and becomes confused and frightened.
Mr Barker: Where am I? I want to go home.
Panel 2
Staff assess urgent illness, delirium and possible causes.
Nurse: You are in hospital, Mr Barker. I am here to help.
Panel 3
The nurse checks his usual Parkinson’s medicines and timings.
Nurse: Did he receive his usual medicines on time?
Panel 4
The pharmacist compares the prescription with his home record.
Pharmacist: A morning dose was missed. We need advice now.
Panel 5
The doctor contacts the Parkinson’s team about the missed dose.
Doctor: Please advise how to continue his medicines safely.
Panel 6
That evening he dozes, then wakes frightened again.
Mr Barker: Do not leave me. Who are all these people?
Panel 7
The nurse reassesses him and continues calm support.
Nurse: He slept, but the confusion and fear remain.
Panel 8
Haloperidol is contraindicated in Parkinson’s disease.
Doctor: I will seek specialist advice about his continuing distress.
Panel 9
Confusion continues. Staff hand over medicine timings and the care plan.
Nurse: The night team will reassess him and escalate any deterioration.
Commentary
Give Parkinson’s medicines at the person’s usual times, assess possible causes of delirium and seek specialist advice. Haloperidol is contraindicated in Parkinson’s disease.