[Revised practice guidelines 'Delirium in adults and the elderly'].

Area of Science:

• Geriatrics
• Internal Medicine
• Neurology

Background:

• The 2004 practice guidelines for delirium required revision to incorporate current evidence and clinical best practices.
• The Dutch Geriatrics Society initiated a multidisciplinary effort to update these guidelines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revise and update the 2004 practice guidelines on delirium management.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for the screening, prevention, and treatment of delirium.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary workgroup reviewed existing literature and clinical data.
• The workgroup incorporated patient and caregiver perspectives into the guideline development.
• Focus was placed on non-pharmaceutical interventions and judicious medication use.

Main Results:

• New guidelines emphasize early screening and non-pharmaceutical prevention and treatment strategies for delirium.
• Recommendations include a cautious approach to psychotropic medication prescribing.
• Guidelines address the specific needs of nursing home residents with delirium.

Conclusions:

• The revised guidelines integrate patient and caregiver perspectives, focusing on optimal care for delirium.
• Delirium diagnosis and treatment are positioned as core medical responsibilities for attending physicians.
• Recommendations cover follow-up care organization for delirium patients.