Dysfunctions in orientation become apparent when a patient cannot coherently talk about recent events, has misconceptions about where they are, or does not know who they are. Orientation is always classified as orientation to time, place and person. Orientation dysfunctions (often in combination with dysfunctions in consciousness and attention) are indicative of a delirium, dementia and amnesic syndrome, but also of a depressive disorder, alcohol dependence or other substance abuse and psychotic disorders.
