Read story C26: I am his friend (image and text)
How a friend can help staff recognise delirium
Peter knows Tomás through years of daily contact. When Tomás becomes acutely confused, Peter can describe his usual abilities and the new change. Useful information is not limited to biological relatives. Staff can listen while respecting the person’s wishes and the rules about sharing confidential information.
Story text
Panel 1. They have met most mornings for years.
Panel 2.
- Peter: This is completely different from yesterday.
Panel 3.
- Nurse: How do you know him?
- Peter: I’m his friend. I see him almost every day.
Panel 4.
- Nurse: What is he usually like, and what changed?
Panel 5. Peter’s information becomes part of the assessment.
Panel 6. The team also checks Tomás’s wishes about who is involved and what can be shared.
Bottom band. Someone who knows the person well can provide important information—even if they are not a relative.