Delirium in the intensive care unit

Margaret C Marshall, Mark D. Soucy

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    29 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Delirium in the intensive care unit (ICU) is a complex, common, and problematic condition that interferes with healing and recovery. It leads to higher morbidity and mortality and extended hospital stays. The aging population older than 65, and more likely to develop delirium, is the fastest growing population in the United States and is increasingly seen in the ICU. Delirium is often unrecognized and misdiagnosed, which leads to mistreatment or lack of appropriate treatment. This article discusses the definition of delirium, pathogenesis, clinical practice guidelines, newer assessment tools for ICU, and nursing interventions directed toward prevention and early identification of delirium.

    Original languageEnglish (US)
    Pages (from-to)172-178
    Number of pages7
    JournalCritical Care Nursing Quarterly
    Volume26
    Issue number3
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 2003

    Keywords

    • Assessment tools
    • Critical care patient
    • Delirium
    • Nursing interventions
    • Pathogenesis
    • Prevention
    • Risk factors

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Critical Care

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