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Delirium in Australian hospitals: a prospective study
C Travers1, G J Byrne, N A Pachana
1Queensland Dementia Training Study Centre, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia.
Current Gerontology and Geriatrics Research
|October 24, 2013
Summary
Delirium is common in older Australian hospital patients, affecting 9.7% on admission and 7.6% during their stay. This condition significantly increases in-hospital mortality risk.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Hospital Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Limited Australian data exists on delirium in older hospitalized patients.
- Delirium is a significant concern impacting patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and incidence of delirium in older Australian hospital patients.
- To assess outcomes associated with delirium in this population.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study of 493 patients aged ≥70 years across four Australian hospitals.
- Trained nurses used standardized instruments (e.g., Confusion Assessment Method) for delirium assessment.
- Physician case reviews confirmed diagnoses of dementia and delirium.
Main Results:
- 9.7% of patients presented with delirium on admission; 7.6% developed it during hospitalization.
- Dementia was a key predictor of delirium (OR=3.18 admission, OR=4.82 during stay).
- Delirium strongly predicted increased in-hospital mortality (OR=5.19 admission, OR=31.07 during stay).
Conclusions:
- Delirium is a prevalent and serious condition in older Australian hospital patients.
- Dementia is a significant risk factor for delirium.
- Early detection and management of delirium are crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing mortality.
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