Delirium in the Neuro Intensive Care Unit

This article reviews current literature regarding the neuro intensive care unit (ICU) and the ICU setting in general regarding delirium, pain, agitation, and evidence-based guidelines and assessment tools. Delirium in the ICU affects as many as 50% to 80% of patients. Delirium is associated with increased burden of illness, higher mortality, and increased suffering. Evidence-based guidelines recommend using validated and reliable assessment tools. We reviewed current national clinical guidelines, validated tools for assessing pain, agitation/sedation, and delirium. We also reviewed a delirium risk-assessment/prediction tool.