Patients
Understanding Delirium After Burn Injury
Delirium is a common but often temporary condition that affects thinking, awareness, and behavior, especially for patients recovering from a burn injury.
Learn how to recognize the signs, what to expect, and how caregivers and loved ones can help.
Find a Burn Center Near You
Symptoms to Watch For
Delirium symptoms may come and go and are often worse at night:
Who is Most at Risk?
Delirium can affect anyone, but it’s more common among:
How the Care Team Can Help
The hospital team uses daily screening tools and strategies to prevent or reduce delirium:
Encouraging movement and walking (when cleared)
Promoting daytime wakefulness and nighttime rest
Managing pain appropriately
Limiting or adjusting medications that can cause confusion
Treating infections and correcting imbalances
Reducing nighttime interruptions
What You Can Do to Help
Family and caregivers play an important role:
Share your loved one’s normal routines and behaviors with staff
Help reorient the patient using photos or favorite belongings
Keep lights on during the day and quiet/dark at night
Minimize visitors and noise during rest times
Avoid arguing—offer reassurance instead
Use simple, clear instructions and give time to respond
Bring hearing aids and glasses to improve connection with surroundings
Possible Long-Term Effects
While delirium is usually temporary, it can have lingering effects:
Some burn patients show signs of cognitive difficulty after rehab
Longer duration of delirium may lead to greater challenges with memory, decision-making, or daily tasks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is delirium the same as dementia?
No. Delirium happens suddenly and is usually short-term. Dementia develops slowly over time and tends to be permanent.