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Delirium in the intensive care unit.
Margaret Cole Marshall1, Mark D Soucy
1Department of Family Nursing Care, School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA. PeggyMarshall@bigplanet.com
Critical Care Nursing Quarterly
|August 22, 2003
Summary
Delirium in intensive care units (ICUs) is a common issue impacting patient recovery and survival. Early identification and nursing interventions are crucial for managing this condition, especially in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Geriatrics
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Delirium is a frequent and serious complication in intensive care units (ICUs).
- It negatively impacts patient healing, increases mortality, and prolongs hospital stays.
- The aging population (over 65) is growing and at higher risk for delirium in ICUs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define delirium and explore its pathogenesis.
- To review clinical practice guidelines and novel assessment tools for ICU delirium.
- To outline nursing interventions for delirium prevention and early detection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of current knowledge on ICU delirium.
- Discussion of diagnostic criteria and assessment tools.
- Examination of evidence-based nursing interventions.
Main Results:
- Delirium is often underrecognized and misdiagnosed in ICUs.
- Specific assessment tools can improve identification rates.
- Proactive nursing interventions can aid in prevention and early management.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of ICU delirium requires accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.
- Nursing plays a vital role in preventing and identifying delirium.
- Addressing delirium is essential for improving patient outcomes in the ICU.