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Delirium in the surgical patient
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
The American Surgeon
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Delirium is a frequent yet often missed condition in surgical patients. Recognizing mental changes can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of underlying physical issues, improving outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Surgical Patient Care
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Delirium is a prevalent syndrome in hospitalized surgical patients.
- It is frequently unrecognized and associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
- Delirium arises from various potentially correctable physical abnormalities, often with multiple coexisting causes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the importance of considering delirium in surgical patients.
- To highlight the potential for earlier recognition and intervention.
- To underscore the link between delirium recognition and management of underlying physical disorders.
Main Methods:
- This abstract does not detail specific methods.
- The focus is on the clinical presentation and implications of delirium.
- Discussion centers on diagnostic considerations and potential benefits of early identification.
Main Results:
- Delirium is common in surgical settings.
- It is linked to poor patient outcomes.
- Early recognition of mental and behavioral changes is key.
Conclusions:
- Considering delirium whenever mental or behavioral abnormalities arise can improve early recognition.
- Prompt diagnosis allows for correction of underlying physical disorders.
- Earlier identification and management of delirium can reduce patient morbidity and mortality.