Short-term Confusion

Dear Ashley,
I remember you describing intense periods of brain fog since first getting sick in 2006.  You said it fluctuated, and I was glad you were able to spend the vacation feeling somewhat clear.  Having all those periods of time you don't remember, and not feeling able to concentrate must be frightening and frustrating.  I wish I could tell you how to fix it, but it's one of those symptoms that could be caused by a wide variety of things.  It is important though, that when you are feeling like this, your family and friends understand and make sure to not overwhelm you.  These are mostly suggestions for them to be sensitive to what you are experiencing and to understand that it is not your fault and you are doing the best you can.  I hope they help.
-Amanda

Risk for Acute confusion, related to disturbance in cerebral metabolism secondary to side effects of antibacterial medications.

• Assess daily symptoms of brain fog, asking Ashley how she is feeling as her experiences vary every day (Schuler, 2012).  Keep daily routines consistent which can help maintain orientation (Carpenito-Moyet, 2010).

• It may be necessary to find a scale to assess altered cognition, maybe testing orientation and memory would help (Carpenito-Moyet, 2010).

• Assess for depression, as there is an association between depression and confusion (Carpenito-Moyet, 2010). 

• Provide flexibility with homework assignments and other educational obligations, because somedays she may need more time to complete the level of work she is capable of (Schuler, 2012).

• Provide education to her family and community about what symptoms may appear, why, and how to interact sensitively with her during these times (Dean & Wilcock, 2012; Carpenito-Moyet, 2010). 

• Refer to a neurologist regularly, perhaps every few months, and more frequently when Ashley experiences exacerbations of her symptoms.

• Refer to education counselor who understands her situation and can recommend how to proceed academically and help her as she pursues completion of high school with online courses (Schuler, 2012).