In a hospice setting, which medication is used to treat delirium?

• A. Haloperidol
• B. Morphine
• C. Dopamine
• D. Diazepam

Answer: (A)

Delirium in hospice care is often managed with a fast-acting antipsychotic to quickly calm agitation and reduce perceptual disturbances. Haloperidol is well suited for this role because it effectively lowers delirium-related agitation and hallucinations without causing heavy respiratory depression, which is important for patients with limited reserve. It can be given by mouth or by injection for rapid relief as needed, and dosing can be titrated to balance comfort with mental clarity.

Morphine treats pain but can worsen delirium and sedation, so it’s not used to treat delirium itself. Dopamine is not a treatment for delirium and would not help symptoms; in fact, it could worsen confusion. Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, often worsens delirium in older adults and those in palliative care, making it a poor choice for this issue.