Overview and Strategy Analysis of Technology-Based Nonpharmacological Interventions for In-Hospital Delirium...

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Gerontology
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Delirium prevention is critical for critically ill patients.
• Nonpharmacological, multicomponent interventions are recommended for delirium prevention.
• Technology-based interventions support these nonpharmacological approaches, but a comprehensive overview is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review technology types used in nonpharmacological interventions for hospital delirium prevention and reduction.
• To identify the underlying strategies employed by these technology-based interventions.

Main Methods:

• A systematic scoping review was conducted using Scopus and Embase databases (2015-2020).
• Studies included any technology-based intervention assessing delirium or risk factor outcomes in hospitals.
• Data extraction and quality assessment followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines.

Main Results:

• 31 studies revealed 8 technology types and 14 strategies categorized into 7 pathways (e.g., restore circadian rhythm, activate mind/body, induce relaxation).
• All technology types showed positive effects on delirium outcomes.
• Effective interventions often used multicomponent approaches and addressed psychological needs (familiarity, distraction, soothing elements).

Conclusions:

• Technology-based interventions hold significant potential for delirium prevention when addressing patients' multidimensional needs.
• The identified 7 pathways offer a framework for developing more effective interventions.
• Transforming ICUs into healing environments using technology can be a powerful delirium prevention tool.