What medication is commonly administered to an elderly woman experiencing agitation and delirium after an operation?

• A. Haloperidol
• B. Diazepam
• C. Risperidone
• D. Lorazepam

Answer: (A)

In managing agitation and delirium, particularly in an elderly patient following surgery, haloperidol is often the preferred medication. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic that is effective in treating acute agitation, and it is particularly useful in the context of delirium, where it can help stabilize mood and reduce psychomotor agitation without significantly exacerbating confusion.

This medication is typically chosen because it has a long history of safety and efficacy in geriatric populations and is less likely to cause respiratory depression compared to benzodiazepines, which can be especially concerning in elderly patients who may have varying levels of respiratory function.

In contrast, benzodiazepines such as diazepam and lorazepam, while they can be effective for anxiety and agitation, may lead to increased sedation, confusion, and heightened risk of falls, which is a significant concern in older adults. Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic, is sometimes used in similar scenarios but is generally not as first-line for acute agitation as haloperidol due to its increased side effect profile, especially in the geriatric population.

Therefore, haloperidol's profile makes it a more appropriate choice for managing agitation and delirium in this specific patient demographic.