Nursing identification of delirium.
OBJECTIVE
Describe nurses' ability to recognize delirium on both intensive care unit and medical-surgical units.


METHODS
This is a descriptive cross-sectional study using a convenience sample.


METHODS
Sixty-one registered nurses (RNs) were recruited from both medical-surgical and intensive care units from 2 midsized hospitals in the Midwest.


METHODS
: For this study, a survey was developed using true/false and Likert-type scale questions to assess (1) nurse knowledge of symptoms associated with delirium, (2) negative sequelae associated with delirium, and (3) confidence levels regarding assessing for delirium.


CONCLUSIONS
Tremendous opportunity exists in nursing education for learning about negative outcomes associated with delirium and the importance of routine assessment. Clarification of negative sequelae related to delirium will lead nurses to value and understand the importance of early detection. Appropriate use of a standard cognitive assessment and an instrument designed to detect delirium is vital in a successful delirium prevention program. Providing nurses with educational resources and opportunities to apply knowledge will increase confidence in identification and management of delirium.
Flagg
Brandee
B
Inpatient Oncology/Hematology Unit, Memorial Hospital of South Bend, 100 Navarre Place, South Bend, IN 46601, USA. bflagg@mhopc.com
Cox
Lori
L
McDowell
Stacy
S
Mwose
Juliana M
JM
Buelow
Janice M
JM
D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003693:Delirium / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000451:nursing; D006801:Humans; D009733:Nursing Diagnosis; D012307:Risk Factors; D014481:United States