[3D-CAM Guideline-Conform Translation for German-Speaking Countries]

Area of Science:

• Medical research
• Clinical assessment tools
• Geriatric medicine

Background:

• Postoperative delirium (POD) is a frequent complication after surgery, characterized by altered mental status and attention deficits.
• Current guidelines strongly recommend regular screening for POD using validated instruments from the recovery room through the fifth postoperative day.
• The 3-Minute Diagnostic Interview for CAM-defined Delirium (3D-CAM) is a validated, efficient, and reliable tool for detecting POD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To translate the English version of the 3D-CAM into German.
• To ensure the translated instrument maintains the high sensitivity and specificity of the original.
• To make the 3D-CAM accessible for use in German-speaking healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• The translation followed the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcome Research (ISPOR) guideline for translating patient-reported outcome measures.
• Multiple forward translations were harmonized, followed by a back-translation reviewed by the original authors.
• Cognitive debriefing and adaptation for recovery room use were performed to refine the German version.

Main Results:

• A German translation of the 3D-CAM was successfully developed.
• The translation process ensured the content integrity and clinical utility of the original instrument.
• The adapted German 3D-CAM is suitable for screening postoperative delirium in German-speaking patients.

Conclusions:

• The German translation of the 3D-CAM is now available, facilitating standardized POD screening in German-speaking regions.
• This validated instrument supports adherence to clinical guidelines for early detection and management of postoperative delirium.
• The availability of the German 3D-CAM aims to improve patient outcomes by enabling timely identification of delirium.