Delirium in the critical care patient: what the professional staff needs to know.
Delirium has been recognized in the literature as a significant problem in the care and treatment of the critical care patient. Delirium, a medical disorder that results in the morbidity and mortality of the patients, especially in the elderly, is often misdiagnosed and inappropriately treated. Nurses and other health care professionals need in-depth education about delirium, validated and understandable assessment tools, and astute clinical observational skills. A comprehensive and aggressive clinical management plan that incorporates appropriate pharmacological agents will result in less morbidity and improved long-term outcomes.
Litton
Kimberley A
KA
Coronary Care Unit, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pa., USA. klitton@wpahs.org
D000368:Aged; D000430:Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium / Q000209:etiology; D001007:Anxiety / Q000209:etiology; D015897:Comorbidity; D003221:Confusion / Q000209:etiology; D003422:Critical Care; D003693:Delirium / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology; D004496:Education, Continuing; D006801:Humans; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D012307:Risk Factors