Altered mental status is a common chief complaint in emergency departments, especially in the context of an elderly population. Although, at times, altered mental status is relatively benign in etiology, it is commonly the first clinical sign of impending compromise. Early identification of its underlying cause is important in providing prompt and effective care that reduces morbidity and mortality. There is an extremely broad differential diagnosis when it comes to altered mental status, including a urinary tract infection, sepsis, or an acute stroke. In a very severe presentation, a patient with depressed mental status may present in a coma.
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