A family intervention to reduce delirium in hospitalised ICU patients: A feasibility randomised controlled trial

Dynamic delirium - Nursing intervention to reduce delirium in patients critically Ill, a randomized control trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effectiveness of a nursing intervention based on the Dynamic Symptom Model (DSM) and scientific evidence versus daily care in reducing the incidence and duration of delirium in intensive care patients.

METHOD

We designed the intervention named "DyDel" (By Dynamic Delirium) based on the theoretical approach of the DSM and from scientific evidence. A double-masked clinical trial of parallel groups was developed to test DyDel, with 213 patients older than 18 admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) randomized to the study groups. The intervention group received DyDel each shift from day 0 until discharged from the ICU, while the control group received daily care in the ICU. At the same time, all participants were followed to measure primary (incidence and duration of delirium) and secondary outcomes (level of sedation and pain, days of mechanical ventilation, stay in ICU, and physical restriction).

RESULTS

Overall, the study population were older than 60 years (60.3 ± 15.2 years), the male gender (59.6 %), and the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (73.7 %) were predominant. Comparing groups of study, the incidence of delirium was lower in the intervention group (5.6 %) than in the control group (14.8 %) (p = 0.037). The intervention group had lower days with delirium (0.07 ± 0.308) than the control group (0.34 ± 1.28) (p = 0.016), lower pain intensity (p = 0.002) and lower days of physical restraints (p = 0.06).

CONCLUSION

Non-pharmacological care, like the DyDel intervention, includes the family and focuses on the different patient's needs, which can help to reduce the incidence and duration of delirium in patients admitted to adult ICUs.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE

DyDel was non-pharmacological and included the family. The DyDel's activities were focused on physiological, psychological, spiritual, and social needs and the experience and trajectory of delirium. The nurse can give humanized care in the ICU by applying DyDel.

Establishing consensus on patient- and family-centered care in adult intensive care units: A Delphi survey

PURPOSE

To establish consensus between intensive care unit (ICU) experts on concrete patient- and family-centered care statements for adult patients and relatives in the ICU.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We did a three-round Delphi survey with a panel of ICU health care professionals from 23 ICUs in Denmark. In round 1, participants answered 20 open-ended questions, based on existing evidence. Analysis of their responses generated close-ended statements, which participants primary rated on a five-point-Likert-scale, from very important to not important at all. In rounds 2 and 3., consensus was predefined as ≥75% of participants rating a statement important.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine participated: 38 nurses, 24 physicians, and four occupational and physiotherapists. In total 96%, 90% and 72% answered the first, second, and third rounds, respectively. In round 1, participants answers resulted in >3000 statements that were analyzed into 82 condensed statements. After participants rated the statements in round 2 and 3, 47 statements reached consensus as important.

CONCLUSIONS

The 47 statements rated to be important included interdisciplinary approaches to systematic information sharing and consultations with patients and family-members, with the aim being to accommodate patients and family-members´ individual needs throughout the ICU stay.

Understanding family carer experiences and perceptions of engagement in delirium prevention and care for adults in hospital: Qualitative systematic review

AIM

To identify, describe and synthesise what is known about family carers' experiences and perspectives of engagement in delirium prevention and care for adults in hospital.

DESIGN

Systematic review and synthesis of qualitative evidence.

DATA SOURCES

Comprehensive literature search within PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Central and PsycInfo databases to August 2022. Peer reviewed original qualitative research published in English.

METHODS

Data were extracted using Covidence systematic review software. Methodological quality was reviewed against the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) Qualitative Checklist. Thematic synthesis was used to develop analytical themes. Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CERQual) framework was applied to findings.

RESULTS

Of 3429 records identified, 29 met criteria for final inclusion. Studies included a range of settings (intensive care, medical and surgical wards) and family carer types (spouse, daughter, parent and friend). Three primary themes Shared Caregiving, Partnership and Support, Communication for Shared Understanding and three cross-cutting contextual themes Care Transitions, Family Carer Context and Hospital Context were identified. Family carers have mixed experiences of involvement in delirium care and prevention. Family carer engagement in care impacted perceptions of care quality and their own self-efficacy. Where person-centred care expectations were not met, some family carers adopted compensatory or care contingency strategies. Information sharing and timely support from hospital staff who understood the carer context supported carer involvement. Supportive physical environments and addressing power imbalances allowed greater engagement.

CONCLUSION

Family carers often wish to be involved in delirium prevention and care, but need to be recognised as individuals, listened to, informed and supported to optimise their contribution.

IMPACT

The review findings can guide health professional and decision makers to optimise family carer involvement in delirium care programs.

PROTOCOL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO [CRD42020221854].

REPORTING

ENTREQ. No Patient or Public Contribution.

The effect of nonpharmacological interventions applied by nurses to intensive care patients on the duration of delirium: a meta-analysis study

OBJECTIVE

It was aimed to determine the effect level of nonpharmacological methods applied by nurses to patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit on the duration of delirium.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For this study, relevant studies were accessed by searching in July-October 2022. After the necessary exclusions were made, 14 studies were included in the study. The total sample size of the studies was 1123.

RESULTS

According to the results, nonpharmacological interventions applied by nurses to intensive care patients were found to reduce the duration of delirium (SMD: - 0.625, 95% CI: - 1.1040-0.210; Z =  - 2.950, p = 0.003, I2 = 93.119%). The country of the study (SMD: - 0.047, p = 0.001) and the types of nonpharmacological interventions used (SMD: - 0.062, p = 0.000) influenced the effect size of modulators on the duration of delirium in ICU patients.

CONCLUSION

Nonpharmacological interventions applied by nurses, who have significant responsibilities in the protection and promotion of health, were found to reduce the duration of delirium in intensive care patients. This study shows that nurses, one of the main components of the multidisciplinary team in intensive care, are successful when they apply nonpharmacological interventions well.

Physicians' beliefs and perceived importance of traumatic brain injury-associated agitation in critically ill patients: a survey of Canadian intensivists

PURPOSE

Agitation is a common behavioural problem following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Intensive care unit (ICU) physicians' perspectives regarding TBI-associated agitation are unknown. Our objective was to describe physicians' beliefs and perceived importance of TBI-associated agitation in critically ill patients.

METHODS

Following current standard guidance, we built an electronic, self-administrated, 42-item survey, pretested it for reliability and validity, and distributed it to 219 physicians working in 18 ICU level-1 trauma centres in Canada. We report the results using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

The overall response rate was 93/219 (42%), and 76/93 (82%) respondents completed the full survey. Most respondents were men with ten or more years of experience. Respondents believed that pre-existing dementia (90%) and regular recreational drug use (86%) are risk factors for agitation. Concerning management, 91% believed that the use of physical restraints could worsen agitation, 90% believed that having family at the bedside reduces agitation, and 72% believed that alpha-2 adrenergic agonists are efficacious for managing TBI agitation. Variability was observed in beliefs on epidemiology, sex, gender, age, socioeconomic status, and other pharmacologic options. Respondents considered TBI agitation frequent enough to justify the implementation of management protocols (87%), perceived the current level of clinical evidence on TBI agitation management to be insufficient (84%), and expressed concerns about acute and long-term detrimental outcomes and burden to patients, health care professionals, and relatives (85%).

CONCLUSION

Traumatic brain injury-associated agitation in critically ill patients was perceived as an important issue for most ICU physicians. Physicians agreed on multiple approaches to manage TBI-associated agitation although agreement on epidemiology and risk factors was variable.

Use of Family Photographs Reduces Restlessness in Neurocritical Care Patients

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Patients admitted to the neuroscience intensive care unit often experience varying states of confusion and restlessness. The purpose of this study was to examine restlessness in acutely confused patients through use of familiar photographs. METHODS : This randomized prospective pilot study placed family photographs (photos) on the bedrail of confused patients during the night shift (8 pm to 4 am ) in a neuroscience intensive care unit. Wrist actigraphy was used to examine restlessness when patients were turned to face the photos versus when they were not facing the photos. RESULTS: The 20 patients enrolled provided 34 nights worth of data during which 32 640 actigraph readings were obtained. On the first night of study, the odds of wrist movement were higher when the patient was facing the photos compared with not (odds ratio, 1.51; 95% confidence interval, 1.42-1.61). During subsequent nights, the odds of wrist movement were lower when the patient was facing the photos compared with not (odds ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.75-0.90). CONCLUSION : Use of familiar photos does not change restlessness, agitation, or delirium on the first night of observation. However, the use of familiar photos may decrease restlessness on the subsequent nights. There are important subjective observations from researchers and family that suggest all subjects had a noticeable response when initially seeing the familiar photos.

A family intervention to prevent postoperative delirium in patients undergoing cardiac valve surgery: A randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

Multiple guidelines recommend that families be involved in the care of ICU patients, which has been widely used in ICU delirium management in recent years. Postoperative delirium (POD) occurs frequently after cardiac surgery and is associated with poor outcomes; however, the effects of family intervention on this group are rarely studied.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the effects of family intervention on the incidence of POD and the ICU prognoses of patients undergoing cardiac valve surgery.

METHODS

This was a two-group, single-blind, randomized controlled trial involving 80 patients undergoing cardiac valve surgery, with 40 patients in each group. The control group received routine ICU visits, and the experimental group implemented a family intervention that instructed family caregivers to participate in delirium management during ICU visits. The occurrence of POD, ICU stay, mechanical ventilation time of patients; as well as the anxiety, depression, and satisfaction levels of family caregivers were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The incidence of POD and ICU stay of patients were significantly lower in the experimental group compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The anxiety and depression incidence of family caregivers in the experimental group was lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05), and satisfaction scores were higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Family intervention has the potential to reduce the incidence of POD in patients undergoing cardiac valve surgery, shorten ICU stays, reduce the incidence of anxiety and depression in family caregivers, and improve their satisfaction. These findings suggest that family intervention could be incorporated into routine nursing practice.

Exploring patients' and relatives' needs and perceptions regarding family participation in essential care in the intensive care unit: A qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

To examine the needs, perceptions and influencing factors according to former adult intensive care unit patients and relatives with regard to family participation in essential care in the unit.

RESEARCH DESIGN

A qualitative interpretive descriptive study using inductive thematic analysis.

SETTING

Twelve pairs of former Dutch patients and their relatives were interviewed within two months after the patient's discharge from the unit between December 2017 and April 2018.

FINDINGS

Four themes emerged: the family's history, the patient's condition, supporting the patient and supporting the relative. The family's history, in particular the relationship with the patient and former experience with care, determined the level of participation in essential care. The level of participation was also influenced by the patient's condition, more specifically level of consciousness, stability of the patient's situation and length of the patient's stay. The third theme, supporting the patient, related to presence/being able to 'be there' for the patient and a mostly positive attitude towards family participation. The last theme was supporting the relative, with three subthemes associated with relatives' needs and perceptions: (dis)comfort with participation in essential care, need for invitation and support, and concern about the possible strain experienced by relatives.

CONCLUSION

Supporting the patient and supporting the relative are reflecting the needs and perceptions of patients and relatives regarding family participation in essential care. Both the family's history and the patient's condition influence the relative's level of participation. Intensive care unit nurses and other healthcare providers could take these themes into account when encouraging family participation in essential care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE

Patients' and relatives' needs and perceptions of family participation in essential care in the intensive care unit vary. Family participation in essential care is influenced by the family's history and the patient's condition. Healthcare providers could take these findings into account when implementing family participation in essential care.

The EyeControl-Med device, an alternative tool for communication in ventilated critically ill patients: A pilot study examining communication capabilities and delirium

INTRODUCTION

Communication with ventilated patients in the Intensive care unit (ICU) is challenging. This may lead to anxiety and frustration, potentially contributing to the development of delirium. Various technologies, such as eye-tracking devices, have been employed to facilitate communication with varying grades of success. The EyeControl-Med device is a novel technology that delivers audio content and allows patients to interact by eye movements and could potentially allow for better communication in this setting. The aim of this exploratory concept study was to assess communication capabilities and delirium incidence using the EyeControl-Med device in critically ill patients unable to generate speech.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A single-arm pilot study of patients in a mixed ICU. Patients were approached for consent if they were invasively ventilated and/or tracheotomized, hence unable to generate speech, but had no severe cognitive or sensory impairment that could prevent proper usage. Patients underwent at least 3 sessions with the EyeControl-Med device administered by a speech-language pathologist. Communication and consciousness were assessed using the Loewenstein Communication Scale (LCS) tool during the first and last sessions. Delirium was assessed using a computerized CAM-ICU questionnaire.

RESULTS

15 patients were included, 40% of whom were diagnosed with COVID-19. All patients completed three to seven usage sessions. The mean LCS score improved by 19.3 points (p < 0.0001), with each of its five components showing significant improvements as well. The mean number of errors on the CAM-ICU questionnaire decreased from 6.5 to 2.5 (p = 0.0006), indicating a lower incidence of delirium. No adverse effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

The EyeControl-Med device may facilitate communication and reduce the manifestations and duration of delirium in ventilated critically ill patients. Controlled studies are required to establish this effect.

Family participation in essential care activities in adult intensive care units: An integrative review of interventions and outcomes

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To systematically review interventions and outcomes regarding family participation in essential care in adult intensive care units.

BACKGROUND

Patients and relatives may benefit from family participation in essential care activities.

DESIGN

An integrative literature review.

METHODS

The following databases were systematically searched from inception to January 25, 2021: PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Web of Science and reference lists of included articles. Studies were included when reporting on family participation in essential care activities in intensive care including interventions and outcomes. Quality of the studies was assessed with the Kmet Standard Quality Assessment Criteria. Interventions were assessed, using the TIDieR framework. Data were extracted and synthesised narratively.

RESULTS

A total of 6698 records were screened, and 322 full-text studies were assessed. Seven studies were included, describing an intervention to support family participation. Four studies had a pretest-posttest design, two were pilot feasibility studies and one was observational. The quality of the studies was poor to good, with Kmet-scores: 0.50-0.86 (possible score: 0-1, 1 being the highest). Five studies offered various essential care activities. One study provided sufficient intervention detail. Outcome measures among relatives varied from mental health symptoms to satisfaction, supportiveness, comfort level and experience. Two studies measured patient outcomes: delirium and pressure ulcers. Among ICU healthcare providers, perception, comfort level and experience were assessed. Since outcome measures varied, only narrative synthesis was possible. Family participation is associated with a reduction of anxiety and PTSD symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Intervention descriptions of family participation in essential care activities are generally inadequate and do not allow comparison and replication. Participation of relatives was associated with a significant reduction in mental health symptoms. Other outcome measures varied, therefore, the use of additional outcome measures with validated measurement instruments should be considered.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The review contributed further insight into interventions aiming at family participation in essential care activities in the intensive care unit and their outcomes.

NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

Neither patients nor public were involved.

The effects of a sensory stimulation intervention for preventing delirium in a surgical intensive care unit: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Despite extensive efforts and advances in developing and fostering evidence-based delirium prevention interventions, the incidence of delirium remains high in hospitalized patients. Evidence suggests that sensory stimulation is a core component in interventions to prevent delirium among critically ill patients. However, its impact on the occurrence and outcomes of delirium is poorly understood.

AIM

To evaluate the effects of a sensory stimulation intervention on preventing delirium in a surgical intensive care unit (ICU).

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective, assessor-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial. Adult patients were recruited from a surgical ICU of one tertiary hospital in Guangzhou, China. Participants in the intervention group received a daily 30-min auditory and visual stimulation session for a week, taking into consideration the participants' predefined condition and intervention protocol. The primary outcomes were delirium incidence and delirium-free days, and the secondary outcomes were delirium duration, severity and the first occurrence of delirium. Demographic and clinical data were collected at recruitment, and delirium was assessed three times a day for seven consecutive days using Confusion Assessment-ICU.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty-two participants were randomly assigned to intervention or control groups. For primary outcomes, there were fewer patients with delirium in the intervention group than in the control group (10 vs. 19, risk ratio = 0.53), although statistical significance was not reached. The result showed that there were longer delirium-free days among participants in the intervention group than in the control group (3.66 vs. 2.84, p = .019). For secondary outcomes, the intervention could significantly reduce delirium duration (1.70 ± 0.82 vs. 4.53 ± 2.74 days, p = .004) and delirium severity (3.70 ± 1.25 vs. 5.68 ± 1.57, p = .002). The Kaplan-Meier curve showed the intervention group had a significantly delayed first occurrence of delirium compared with the control group (p = .043).

CONCLUSIONS

The study did not provide significant evidence to support that sensory stimulation could reduce the incidence of delirium, but significant difference on delirium-free days.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This study provides evidence-based practice for clinical healthcare providers to adopt the sensory stimulation protocol to prevent delirium, significantly reducing delirium duration and severity.

Perspectives and wishes for patient and family centred care as expressed by adult intensive care survivors and family-members: A qualitative interview study

OBJECTIVES

To explore perspectives and wishes for patient and family centred care among adult patients and family-members with recent experience of admission to an adult intensive care unit.

RESEARCH DESIGN

An explorative descriptive study using an inductive thematic analysis. Semi-structured interviews with adults (≥18 years) who had experienced admission ≥48 hours to an adult intensive care unit as a patient or family-member within the previous three months. Interview data were analysed used the six phases of thematic analysis, described by Braun and Clarke. Semi-structured interviews with adults (≥18 years) who had experienced admission ≥48 hours to an adult intensive care unit as a patient or family-member within the previous three months. Interview data were analysed used the six phases of thematic analysis, described by Braun and Clarke.

SETTING

Participants were recruited from six general (mixed surgical and medical) units in the Capital Region of Denmark.

FINDINGS

From fifteen interviews a total of 23 participants (8 patients and 15 family-members) described their perspectives and wishes for patient- and family-centred care. Three main themes were identified: 1) Ongoing dialogue is fundamental. Both scheduled and spontaneous information-sharing is important. 2) Humanizing. High-quality treatment was especially evident for participants when staff maintain a humanized attitude. 3) Equipping family to navigate. We found a range of specific suggestions of attention that may help patients and family-members to navigate during admission.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that patients' and family-members' perspectives and wishes for PFCC centred around ongoing dialogue with staff and the importance of humanizing the ICU environment. Patients and family members needed to share and have their knowledge, concerns and perspectives brought forth and acknowledged by staff. Participants emphasized the pivotal role staff have in equipping patients and family-members to cope in the unit and supporting specifically family-members in fulfilling their role as advocates and supporters of the patient.

Feasibility of a standardized family participation programme in the intensive care unit: A pilot survey study

AIM

To assess the feasibility and applicability of a standardized programme to facilitate family participation in essential care activities in the intensive care unit.

DESIGN

Pilot study with a cross-sectional survey design.

METHODS

A standardized programme to facilitate family participation in essential nursing care activities was implemented in intensive care units of three hospitals in the Netherlands from November 2018 until March 2019. The feasibility and applicability of the programme were assessed with surveys of the patients, relatives and healthcare providers.

RESULTS

Three intensive care units successfully implemented the standardized programme. Three patients, ten relatives and 37 healthcare providers responded to the surveys. Patients appreciated family participation and recognized that their relatives liked to participate. Relatives appreciated being able to do something for the patient (80%) and to participate in essential care activities (60%). The majority of relatives (60%) felt they had sufficient knowledge and skills to participate and did not feel obliged nor uncomfortable. Healthcare providers felt they were trained adequately and motivated to apply family participation; application was perceived as easy, clear and relatively effortless according to the majority. According to 68% of the healthcare providers, most relatives were perceived to be capable of learning to participate in essential care activities. Some healthcare providers felt uncertain about the patient's wishes regarding family participation, with some indicating the behaviours of relatives and patients discouraged them from offering family participation. Use of a standardized programme to facilitate family participation in essential care activities in the intensive care unit seems feasible and applicable as determined by relatives and healthcare providers.

Delirium in the intensive care unit and its importance in the post-operative context: A review

The burden of delirium in the intensive care setting is a global priority. Delirium affects up to 80% of patients in intensive care units; an episode of delirium is often distressing to patients and their families, and delirium in patients within, or outside of, the intensive care unit (ICU) setting is associated with poor outcomes. In the short term, such poor outcomes include longer stay in intensive care, longer hospital stay, increased risk of other hospital-acquired complications, and increased risk of hospital mortality. Longer term sequelae include cognitive impairment and functional dependency. While medical category of admission may be a risk factor for poor outcomes in critical care populations, outcomes for surgical ICU admissions are also poor, with dependency at hospital discharge exceeding 30% and increased risk of in-hospital mortality, particularly in vulnerable groups, with high-risk procedures, and resource-scarce settings. A practical approach to delirium prevention and management in the ICU setting is likely to require a multi-faceted approach. Given the good evidence for the prevention of delirium among older post-operative outside of the intensive care setting, simple non-pharmacological interventions should be effective among older adults post-operatively who are cared for in the intensive care setting. In response to this, the future ICU environment will have a range of organizational and distinct environmental characteristics that are directly targeted at preventing delirium.

Effectiveness of nursing intervention to reduce delirium in adult critically ill - A protocol for a randomized trial

The incidence of delirium in intensive care patients remains high, and its consequences have a high negative impact on patients, their families, health care teams, and society in general. Because delirium can lead to increased hospital stay, increased days on mechanical ventilation, increased risk of adverse events, increased memory loss and even increased mortality. However, some factors that precipitate delirium can be modified to reduce its presence and duration through non-pharmacological measures. Thus, the present protocol seeks to establish the theoretical and methodological background to develop and test nursing interventions to reduce delirium in adult patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit. For this reason, it is based on the theoretical elements of delirium and a nursing theory, called the Dynamic Symptoms Model (DSM), to understand the phenomenon and how nursing knowledge can be used to intervene. Thus, a nursing intervention proposal is proposed based on the DSM and scientific evidence, and a methodological design of a randomized controlled clinical trial type with parallel groups, which allows measuring the effectiveness of the designed interventions, following methodological and ethical rigor and with adequate control of biases.

Outcomes of family-centred auditory and tactile stimulation implementation on traumatic brain injured patients

AIM

To determine the outcomes of Family-centred Auditory and Tactile Stimulation Implementation on Traumatic Brain Injured Patients in Egypt.

BACKGROUND

Family engagement in the care of their relatives in the Intensive care units is limited due to patients' life-threatening conditions, in addition to the use of high technology in these settings. Auditory and tactile sensory stimulations are among the diverse sensory stimulations that have received more attention in brain injured patients than other senses as being considered safe, and effective measures.

DESIGN

A Quasi-experimental design was used to test the hypotheses of this study.

METHODS

A convenience sample of 60 adult patients suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury and admitted to the intensive care units of two University Hospitals in Egypt was included in the study. Patients were assigned into two equal groups: control and study groups (30 patients each). The auditory and tactile stimulations were provided by trained family members, once daily for 2 weeks for the study group. Whereas routine communication was provided by the family of traumatic brain injured patients in the ICU for the control group. Two tools were used for data collection; tool one, the "Glasgow Coma Scale" to assess patient's level of consciousness, and tool two the "Physiological Adverse Events Assessment" to monitor patients for the occurrence of physiological adverse events.

DATA COLLECTION

January to October 2019.

RESULTS

The implementation of an organized auditory and tactile stimulation by trained family members is associated with highly statistically significant positive effects . Patients in the study group showed a higher mean of consciousness, lower incidence rate of physiological adverse events, and a lower mean duration of ICU stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of an organized auditory and tactile stimulation by trained family members enhanced the consciousness level of comatose Traumatic Brain Injured patients, decreased the occurrence of physiological adverse events, and ICU length of stay. Thus, it is recommended for use in the daily routine nursing care of comatose Traumatic Brain Injured patients.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This study gives a deeper understanding of how family engagement in the care of their critically ill relative enhances their recovery and improve their level of consciousness.

The influence of nurse characteristics on practice skills and attitudes towards working with families in critical care: A regression analysis

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to identify nurse characteristics that influence their self-perceived practice skills in working with families and their attitudes towards engaging families in adult and neonatal intensive care units.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY/DESIGN

Secondary data analysis using a descriptive, cross-sectional design.

SETTING

An online survey was completed by 256 nurses from six adult intensive (73% response rate) and two neonatal intensive and one intermediate care unit (27% response rate) in a Swiss, university affiliated hospital.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Nurses' self-perceived practice skills in working with families were assessed with the "Family Nursing Practice Scale". Attitudes towards families were measured with the "Families' Importance in Nursing Care - Nurses' Attitudes Scale". Data were analysed with multiple linear regression models.

RESULTS

Prior education in family nursing significantly influenced nurses' self-perceived practice skills in working with families. Nurses' clinical speciality had a significant influence on their attitudes towards overall, and on the subscale "family as a burden". Neonatal intensive care nurses showed more open attitudes towards families overall, but perceived family more often as a burden than nurses in adult intensive care. Nurses' perceived skills and attitudes in family engagement significantly influenced each other.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that nurses' prior education in family nursing and clinical speciality determine their ability to work with and engage families in critical care. Our study suggests that integration of family nursing engagement practices in critical care requires educational implementation strategies combined with culture change efforts.

Non-pharmacological delirium prevention practices among critical care nurses: a qualitative study

Background

Delirium is common among critically ill patients, leading to increased mortality, physical dependence, and cognitive impairment. Evidence suggests non-pharmacological delirium prevention practices are effective in preventing delirium. However, only a few studies explore the actual implementation and its associated challenges among critical care nurses.

Aim

To explore critical care nurses’ perceptions of current non-pharmacological delirium prevention practices in adult intensive care settings, including delirium screening, early mobilisation, sleep promotion, family engagement, and sensory stimulation.

Methods

A qualitative design adopting a thematic analysis approach. Semi-structured interviews with 20 critical care nurses were conducted in ten acute hospitals in mainland China.

Results

Three themes emerged: (a) importance of family engagement; (b) influence of organisational factors, and (c) suggestions on implementation. The implementation of non-pharmacological delirium prevention practices was limited by a strict ICU visitation policy, lack of routine delirium screening and delirium training, light and noise disturbances during nighttime hours, frequent resuscitation and new admissions and strict visitation policy. Case-based training, adopting a sensory stimulation protocol, and family engagement may be enablers.

Conclusion

ICU care routine that lacks delirium assessment and the strict family visitation policy made it challenging to implement the complete bundle of non-pharmacological practices. Resource deficiency (understaffing, lack of training) and ICU environment (frequent resuscitation) also limited the implementation of non-pharmacological practices. Clinicians could implement case-based training and sensory-stimulation programs and improve communication with family caregivers by instructing family caregivers to recognise delirium symptoms and delirium prevention strategies.

Prevention and treatment of delirium in intensive care: Hermeneutics of experiences of the nursing team

OBJECTIVE

To understand the experiences in nursing care in the prevention and treatment of delirium in people hospitalized in intensive care units.

METHODOLOGY

Hermeneutic phenomenological qualitative study. The selection of participants was by intentional sampling: seven nursing assistants and eight nurses. Theoretical saturation was achieved. The phenomenological interview was applied to collect data from a central question and the analysis was carried out following the approaches of Heidegger's hermeneutical circle.

RESULTS

Four significant themes emerged from the analysis: (1) delirium prevention, (2) pharmacological treatment, (3) non-pharmacological treatment, and (4) barriers to non-pharmacological treatment. These themes were accompanied by 35 interrelated units of meaning: in the first theme, the most repetitive units were communication, orientation, and family bonding; in the second was the use of pharmacological treatment only in the acute phase; in the third was the modification of the environment according to the patient's preference (where the family is a priority and strategies that provide cognitive and social stimulation can be reinforced), and in the fourth was the work overload for the nursing team.

CONCLUSIONS

The experiences of the nursing team in the prevention and treatment of delirium in critically ill patients highlight that communication allows an approach to the patient as a human being immersed in a reality, with a personal history, needs and preferences. Therefore, family members must be involved in these scenarios, as they can complement and support nursing care.

Development of a non-pharmacologic delirium management bundle in paediatric intensive care units

BACKGROUND

Non-pharmacologic interventions might be effective to reduce the incidence of delirium in pediatric intensive care units (PICU).

AIM

To explore expert opinions and generate informed consensus decisions regarding the content of a non-pharmacologic delirium bundle to manage delirium in PICU patients.

STUDY DESIGN

A two-round online Delphi study was conducted from February to April 2021. PICU experts (nurses, physicians, researchers, physical therapists, play specialists, and occupational therapists) located in Europe, North America, South America, Asia, and Australia participated.

RESULTS

We developed a questionnaire based on the outcomes of a comprehensive literature search in the domains: 1) cognition support; 2) sleep support; and 3) physical activity support. Under these domains, we listed 11 strategies to promote support with 61 interventions. Participants rated the feasibility of each intervention on a 9-point Likert scale (ranging from 1 strongly disagree to 9 strongly agree). A disagreement index and panel median were calculated to determine the level of agreement among experts. In the second round, participants reassessed the revised statements and ranked the interventions in each domain in order of importance for age groups: 0-2, 3-5, and 6-18 years of age. During the first Delphi round, 53 of 74 (72%) questionnaires were completed, and in the second round 45 of 74 (61%) were completed. Five of the highest ranked interventions across the age groups were: 1) developing a daily routine, 2) adjusting light exposure according to the time of day, 3) scheduling time for sleep, 4) providing eyeglasses and hearing aids if appropriate, 5) encouraging parental presence.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on expert consensus, we developed an age-specific non-pharmacologic delirium bundle of interventions to manage delirium in PICU patients.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

An age-specific Non-Pharmacological Delirium bundle is now ready to be tested in the PICU and will hopefully reduce pediatric delirium.

Family‐centred care interventions to reduce the delirium prevalence in critically ill patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Aim

This study aimed to determine whether family‐centred care (FCC) intervention reduces the ICU delirium prevalence.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

The databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, CINAHL Complete, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Biology Medicine disc (CBMdisc), WANFANG Data and VIP Information, were systematically searched up to 30 November 2021. The search term includes keywords related to intensive care units, delirium and family‐centred care. Meta‐analyses were performed and presented by risk ratio (RR), mean difference (MD) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

The meta‐analysis results showed that compared with the usual care, FCC intervention has positive effects on reducing ICU delirium prevalence [RR = 0.54, 95% CIs (0.36, 0.81), p < .05]. However, no effect was observed on ICU stays, mechanical ventilation duration and ICU‐acquired infection between the two groups.

Conclusions

Family‐centred care is an effective intervention to reduce the ICU delirium prevalence. But the result should be treated cautiously as the high levels of heterogeneity, further high‐quality studies are required to determine the effectiveness of FCC intervention in the ICU setting.

Family participation in essential care activities: Needs, perceptions, preferences, and capacities of intensive care unit patients, relatives, and healthcare providers—An integrative review

BACKGROUND

Family participation in essential care activities may benefit both patients and relatives.

OBJECTIVES

In this integrative review, we aimed to identify needs, perceptions, preferences, and capacities regarding family participation in essential care in intensive care units (ICUs) from the patient's, relatives', and ICU healthcare providers' perspective.

REVIEW METHOD USED

An integrative review method was used.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Web of Science, and reference lists of included articles were searched, from inception to January 25, 2021.

REVIEW METHODS

We included studies on family participation in essential care activities during ICU stay which reported associated needs, perceptions, preferences and capacities. Quality assessment was performed with the Kmet Standard Quality Assessment Criteria developed for evaluating primary research papers in a variety of fields, and an extensive qualitative thematic analysis was performed on the results.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven studies were included. Quality scores varied from 0.45 to 0.95 (range: 0-1). Patients' needs, perceptions, preferences, and capacities are largely unknown. Identified themes on needs and perceptions were relatives' desire to help the patient, a mostly positive attitude among all involved, stress regarding patient safety, perceived beneficial effects, relatives feeling in control-ICU healthcare providers' concerns about loss of control. Preferences for potential essential care activities vary. Relatives want an invitation and support from ICU healthcare providers. Themes regarding capacities were knowledge, skills, education and training, and organisational conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of family participation in essential care requires education and training of relatives and ICU healthcare providers to address safety and quality of care concerns, though most studies lack further specification.

The family in preventing delirium in the intensive care unit: Scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Delirium is cognitive impairment related to negative inpatient outcomes in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), family interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of this condition.

OBJECTIVE

To identify strategies that include the family in the prevention of delirium in the adult intensive care unit that can be integrated into ABCDEF.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Studies describing actions and interventions involving caregivers and family members in the ICU for the prevention of delirium, conducted in the last five years, available in full text, in English and Spanish, Portuguese and in adults.

METHODS

A scope review was conducted using the keywords "Critical Care, Delirium, Family, Primary Prevention" in 11 databases (PubMed, Virtual Health Library, Cochrane Library, TRIP Data base, EBSCO, Ovid Nursing, Springer, Scopus, Dialnet, Scielo, Lilacs) and other sources (Open Gray, Google Scholar), between August - October 2019; 8 studies were considered relevant and were analysed.

RESULTS

The results were described in 3 categories: flexibility vs. restriction of visits in the ICU, Reorientation as a prevention strategy and post-ICU syndrome in the family.

CONCLUSION

Extended visits, development of family-mediated activities, and redirection are non-pharmacological strategies that reduce the incidence of delirium in the ICU and offer multiple benefits to the patient and family/caregiver.

Predicting Delayed Neurocognitive Recovery After Non-cardiac Surgery Using Resting-State Brain Network Patterns Combined With Machine Learning

Delayed neurocognitive recovery (DNR) is a common subtype of postoperative neurocognitive disorders. An objective approach for identifying subjects at high risk of DNR is yet lacking. The present study aimed to predict DNR using the machine learning method based on multiple cognitive-related brain network features. A total of 74 elderly patients (≥ 60-years-old) undergoing non-cardiac surgery were subjected to resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) before the surgery. Seed-based whole-brain functional connectivity (FC) was analyzed with 18 regions of interest (ROIs) located in the default mode network (DMN), limbic network, salience network (SN), and central executive network (CEN). Multiple machine learning models (support vector machine, decision tree, and random forest) were constructed to recognize the DNR based on FC network features. The experiment has three parts, including performance comparison, feature screening, and parameter adjustment. Then, the model with the best predictive efficacy for DNR was identified. Finally, independent testing was conducted to validate the established predictive model. Compared to the non-DNR group, the DNR group exhibited aberrant whole-brain FC in seven ROIs, including the right posterior cingulate cortex, right medial prefrontal cortex, and left lateral parietal cortex in the DMN, the right insula in the SN, the left anterior prefrontal cortex in the CEN, and the left ventral hippocampus and left amygdala in the limbic network. The machine learning experimental results identified a random forest model combined with FC features of DMN and CEN as the best prediction model. The area under the curve was 0.958 (accuracy = 0.935, precision = 0.899, recall = 0.900, F1 = 0.890) on the test set. Thus, the current study indicated that the random forest machine learning model based on rs-FC features of DMN and CEN predicts the DNR following non-cardiac surgery, which could be beneficial to the early prevention of DNR. Clinical Trial Registration: The study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Identification number: ChiCTR-DCD-15006096).

Family intervention for delirium for patients in the intensive care unit: A systematic meta-analysis

Delirium is one of the common manifestations of acute brain dysfunction in critically ill patients. We aimed to evaluate the effect of family intervention on reducing the delirium incidence in patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU). We searched electronic databases for randomized clinical trials, cohort, and before-and-after studies up to September 2021 using the MeSH terms ("family" OR "family caregiver") AND ("delirium"). A total of 6 studies including 4199 patients were analyzed. Compared to the control group, the risk of delirium was 24% lower in the family intervention group (OR 0·76 [0·67-0·86], P = 0.20, I² = 31%). Pooled data from two trials showed that family intervention was associated with fewer delirium days (SMD: -1.13, 95% CI: -1.91 to -0.34; P = 0.08; I² = 67%;). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups in the length of ICU stay, mechanical ventilation duration, and mortality (ICU stay days: MD: -0.62 days; 95% CI: -1.49 to 0.24; P = 0.14; I² = 72%; mechanical ventilation days: MD: -0.48 days; 95% CI: -2.10 to 1.13; P = 0.56; I² = 0%; mortality: OR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.22 to 2.09; P = 0.08; I² = 67%). Current evidence supports the use of family intervention in reducing the delirium risk and delirium days in hospitalized ICU patients. However, its effects on reducing ICU stay length, ventilation duration, and mortality require further study. Future research should consider identifying the specific family intervention strategies and their duration.

Multicomponent nursing program to prevent delirium in critically ill patients: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

To determine the efficacy of a multicomponent nursing program to prevent delirium in critically ill patients.

METHODS

Parallel controlled randomized clinical trial to prevent delirium in 81 critically ill patients: 41 in the control group and 40 in the intervention group (intervention: spatial and temporal guidance, visual stimulus, auditive stimulus, and family support). Participants were recruited from September 2017 to March 2018 in the university hospital Los Comuneros, Bucaramanga, Colombia. Clinical Trials record NCT03215745.

RESULTS

The incidence of delirium was 5% in the intervention group and 24% in the control group. The relative risk was 0.20 (95% CI 0.05 to 0.88). The absolute risk reduction was 19.39% (95% CI 4.61 to 34.17) and the number needed to treat was 5 (95 CI % 3 to 26%).

CONCLUSION

The multicomponent nursing program is efficient to prevent delirium in critically ill patients.

Effect of Patient and Family Centred Care interventions for adult intensive care unit patients and their families: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To assess the evidence for the feasibility and effect of patient and familycentred care interventions provided in the intensive care unit, single or multicomponent, versus usual care, for reducing delirium, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder in patients and family-members.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis following the PRISMA guidelines and GRADE approach. A systematic literature search of relevant databases, screening and inclusion of studies, data extraction and assessment of risk of bias according to Cochrane methodology. The study is preregistered on PROSPERO (CRD42020160768).

SETTING

Adult intensive care units.

RESULTS

Nine randomised controlled trials enrolling a total of 1170 patients and 1226 family-members were included. We found moderate to low certainty evidence indicating no effect of patient and family centred care on delirium, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, in-hospital mortality, intensive care length of stay or family-members' anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. No studies looked at the effect of patient and family centred care on pain or cognitive function in patients. Evaluation of feasibility outcomes was scarce. The certainty of the evidence was low to moderate, mainly due to substantial risk of bias in individual studies and imprecision due to few events and small sample size.

CONCLUSION

It remains uncertain whether patient and family centred care compared to usual care may reduce delirium in patients and psychological sequelae of intensive care admission in patients and families due to limited evidence of moderate to low certainty. Lack of systematic process evaluation of intervention feasibility as recommended by the Medical Research Council to identify barriers and facilitators of patient and family centred care in the adult intensive care unit context, further limits the conclusions that can be drawn.

Overview and Strategy Analysis of Technology-Based Nonpharmacological Interventions for In-Hospital Delirium Prevention and Reduction: Systematic Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Delirium prevention is crucial, especially in critically ill patients. Nonpharmacological multicomponent interventions for preventing delirium are increasingly recommended and technology-based interventions have been developed to support them. Despite the increasing number and diversity in technology-based interventions, there has been no systematic effort to create an overview of these interventions for in-hospital delirium prevention and reduction.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic scoping review was carried out to answer the following questions: (1) what are the technologies currently used in nonpharmacological technology-based interventions for preventing and reducing delirium? and (2) what are the strategies underlying these currently used technologies?

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in Scopus and Embase between 2015 and 2020. A selection was made in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Studies were eligible if they contained any type of technology-based interventions and assessed delirium-/risk factor-related outcome measures in a hospital setting. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using a predesigned data form.

RESULTS

A total of 31 studies were included and analyzed focusing on the types of technology and the strategies used in the interventions. Our review revealed 8 different technology types and 14 strategies that were categorized into the following 7 pathways: (1) restore circadian rhythm, (2) activate the body, (3) activate the mind, (4) induce relaxation, (5) provide a sense of security, (6) provide a sense of control, and (7) provide a sense of being connected. For all technology types, significant positive effects were found on either or both direct and indirect delirium outcomes. Several similarities were found across effective interventions: using a multicomponent approach or including components comforting the psychological needs of patients (eg, familiarity, distraction, soothing elements).

CONCLUSIONS

Technology-based interventions have a high potential when multidimensional needs of patients (eg, physical, cognitive, emotional) are incorporated. The 7 pathways pinpoint starting points for building more effective technology-based interventions. Opportunities were discussed for transforming the intensive care unit into a healing environment as a powerful tool to prevent delirium.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42020175874; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=175874.

Prevention and treatment of delirium in intensive care: Hermeneutics of experiences of the nursing team

OBJECTIVE

To understand the experiences in nursing care in the prevention and treatment of delirium in people hospitalized in intensive care units.

METHODOLOGY

Hermeneutic phenomenological qualitative study. The selection of participants was by intentional sampling: seven nursing assistants and eight nurses. Theoretical saturation was achieved. The phenomenological interview was applied to collect data from a central question and the analysis was carried out following the approaches of Heidegger's hermeneutical circle.

RESULTS

Four significant themes emerged from the analysis: 1) Delirium prevention, 2) Pharmacological treatment, 3) Non-pharmacological treatment, and 4) Barriers to non-pharmacological treatment. These themes were accompanied by 35 interrelated units of meaning: in the first theme, the most repetitive units were communication, orientation, and family bonding; in the second was the use of pharmacological treatment only in the acute phase; in the third was the modification of the environment according to the patient's preference (where the family is a priority and strategies that provide cognitive and social stimulation can be reinforced), and in the fourth was the work overload for the nursing team.

CONCLUSIONS

The experiences of the nursing team in the prevention and treatment of delirium in critically ill patients highlight that communication allows an approach to the patient as a human being immersed in a reality, with a personal history, needs and preferences. Therefore, family members must be involved in these scenarios, as they can complement and support nursing care.

Delirium in adult patients in intensive care: nursing interventions

BACKGROUND

Delirium is a neuropsychiatric syndrome of high incidence in the critically ill patient. It is characterised by changes in acute attention and cognition, has a multifactorial aetiology and has a negative impact on the patient's clinical situation and future quality of life. Prevention of delirium and early identification can reduce associated morbidity and mortality. Consequently, it is vital that intensive care unit (ICU) nurses perform targeted patient monitoring to identify acute cognitive changes.

OBJECTIVE

To identify nursing interventions directed at the prevention and management of delirium in adult patients in ICU.

METHOD

A scoping review was undertaken based on the principles recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute.

RESULTS

Seven studies were selected for inclusion. Non-pharmacological and pharmacological nursing interventions were identified.

CONCLUSION

The interventions identified were predominantly aimed at the prevention of delirium. The training of nurses and wider clinical team in preventing and identifying this syndrome is crucial.

A focused ethnography of the culture of inclusive caring practice in the intensive care unit

Aim

To explore and understand the culture of nurses' multidimensional “caring‐for” practice in intensive care unit (ICU).

Design

A focused ethnography.

Methods

Data were collected from 35 Registered Nurses through participant observations, field notes, documentation reviews, interviews, informal conversations and Participants' additional information forms over 6 months in one ICU. Thematic data analysis was used.

Findings

Different dimensions of nursing caring in ICU were found. The inclusivity of a culture of nurses' “caring‐for” involved the following: oneself, patients and their families, different colleagues, and caring as ecological consciousness in the ICU environment and organization.

The family in preventing delirium in the intensive care unit: Scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Delirium is cognitive impairment related to negative inpatient outcomes in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), family interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of this condition.

OBJECTIVE

To identify strategies that include the family in the prevention of delirium in the adult intensive care unit that can be integrated into ABCDEF.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Studies describing actions and interventions involving caregivers and family members in the ICU for the prevention of delirium, conducted in the last five years, available in full text, in English and Spanish, Portuguese and in adults.

METHODS

A scope review was conducted using the keywords "Critical Care, Delirium, Family, Primary Prevention" in 11 databases (PubMed, Virtual Health Library, Cochrane Library, TRIP Data base, EBSCO, Ovid Nursing, Springer, Scopus, Dialnet, Scielo, Lilacs) and other sources (Open Gray, Google Scholar), between August - October 2019; 8 studies were considered relevant and were analysed.

RESULTS

The results were described in 3 categories: flexibility vs. restriction of visits in the ICU, Reorientation as a prevention strategy and post-ICU syndrome in the family.

CONCLUSION

Extended visits, development of family-mediated activities, and redirection are non-pharmacological strategies that reduce the incidence of delirium in the ICU and offer multiple benefits to the patient and family/caregiver.

The effect of foot massage on the level of consciousness and delirium of intensive care patients: A randomized single-blind controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Depressed level of consciousness and delirium are associated with multiple complications in cognitive, perceptual and sensory functions in the patients of the intensive care units. The present study aimed to determine the effect of foot massage by a nurse and patient's family on the level of consciousness and delirium in patients admitted to the intensive care units (ICU).

METHODS

This was a randomized parallel single-blind controlled trial. Seventy-five ICU were assigned in three groups (massage by a nurse, massage by patient's family and control group) by stratified block randomization method. Both feet were massaged with Swedish massage (10 min) once a day for six days by a nurse or patient's family. Delirium and level of consciousness was measured before, and post-intervention.

RESULTS

The mean level of consciousness in all the three groups increased significantly one-week post-intervention. However, there was no significant difference in the level of consciousness among the three groups during the study. The frequency of delirium in the massage group by the family was 20% before the intervention, which decreased to 12% after intervention. In the massage group by a nurse and control group, 16% of the samples had delirium before the intervention. After the intervention, the prevalence of delirium was 8% in the massage group by a nurse, and it decreased to 12% in the control group, none of which was statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The use of Swedish foot massage did not change the level of consciousness and delirium of patients admitted to the ICU.

The multidisciplinary team perspectives on agitation management in critical care: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

People who are experiencing a period of critical illness frequently experience severe agitation. The presence of agitation can pose risks to the patient, family, and clinical team.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To capture the views and opinions of critical care multidisciplinary teams concerning the approaches in the management of agitation, and to understand and identify the perceived risks and benefits of current management strategies.

DESIGN

A descriptive qualitative design.

METHODS

Data were gathered using semi-structured interviews with multidisciplinary teams from adult critical care units from one region in the United Kingdom.

FINDINGS

A total of 19 participants participated between February to September 2017. There were two group interviews (GIs) (n = 12, GI 1 n = 8, GI 2 n = 4) and seven one-to-one interviews, across four hospital organisations with one participant working via an agency. The mean length (± SD) of each interview, one to one or group, was 58.86 minutes (5.81 minutes). Three major themes were generated about the complex clinical decision-making required to manage an agitated patient. These themes represented: the burden of care, continuity of clinical decision-making, and uncertainty and indecision experienced by participants.

CONCLUSION

Participants described caring for an agitated patient as challenging and stressful. Staff sought clarification on what level of restrictive practice is allowed. Feelings of anxiety and stress generated by the decisions made may have an impact on staff, particularly those who are more inexperienced, which in the longer term could lead to fatigue or moral distress.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The study has emphasised the challenges faced by multidisciplinary teams and how decision-making may impact on individuals within the team.

Implementation of the Family HELP Protocol: A Feasibility Project for a West Texas ICU

The purpose of this project was to determine if bedside intensive care unit (ICU) nurse buy-in to the Family Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) protocol was sufficient to make implementation feasible at one county hospital in West Texas. Surveys were anonymous with ballot box collection being available to the bedside ICU nurses for one week each. Questions were based on literature findings of expected outcomes, identified barriers and facilitators, Calgary Family Intervention Method framework domains, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Framework for program evaluation. Outcome measures were taken from the stated aims of the project and evaluated from paired baseline and summative survey questions. Survey participation was approximately half of nurses employed in the studied ICU. Analysis of the surveys showed a positive perception of family presence decreasing patient delirium symptoms, and a positive perception of the Family HELP protocol. The results described a high perception of family members as partners in care and high intention to implement the Family HELP protocol, indicating strong support of a full implementation of the protocol. The high level of bedside nurse buy-in present in this study has large implications for successful implementation of the Family HELP protocol in the near future, with sustainability and continued use supported by potential inclusion of the task in the electronic health record charting.

Analysis of Delirium From the Dynamic Symptoms Model: A Literature Review

Delirium is a manifestation of brain injury or acute and generalized dysfunction of the upper cerebral cortical processes. In this way, it is important to analyze delirium more broadly as a symptom to understand and intervene taking into account that it is manifesting the presence of brain lesions whose consequences are deleterious to the neurological performance of patients. This article is intended to present a comprehensive approach of delirium analyzed from a symptom perspective and from theoretical and conceptual structure, such as the Dynamic Symptoms Model, specific to the nursing practice. A literature review related to delirium and components of Dynamic Symptoms Model was carried out. We searched the MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, SciELO, and Scopus databases using the terms Delirium, Intensive Care Units, Nursing, and Risk Factor. The existing literature provides evidence of the antecedents, experience, interventions, interactions, and consequences of delirium, which are components of the Model. Thus, the analysis from the Dynamic Symptoms Model perspective bears relevance and contributes to the understanding and approach of delirium.

Pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to prevent delirium in critically ill patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To compare the effects of prevention interventions on delirium occurrence in critically ill adults.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Prospero, and WHO international clinical trial registry were searched from inception to April 8, 2021. Randomized controlled trials of pharmacological, sedation, non-pharmacological, and multi-component interventions enrolling adult critically ill patients were included. We performed conventional pairwise meta-analyses, NMA within Bayesian random effects modeling, and determined surface under the cumulative ranking curve values and mean rank. Reviewer pairs independently extracted data, assessed bias using Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and evidence certainty with GRADE. The primary outcome was delirium occurrence; secondary outcomes were durations of delirium and mechanical ventilation, length of stay, mortality, and adverse effects.

RESULTS

Eighty trials met eligibility criteria: 67.5% pharmacological, 31.3% non-pharmacological and 1.2% mixed pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. For delirium occurrence, 11 pharmacological interventions (38 trials, N = 11,993) connected to the evidence network. Compared to placebo, only dexmedetomidine (21/22 alpha₂ agonist trials were dexmedetomidine) probably reduces delirium occurrence (odds ratio (OR) 0.43, 95% Credible Interval (CrI) 0.21-0.85; moderate certainty). Compared to benzodiazepines, dexmedetomidine (OR 0.21, 95% CrI 0.08-0.51; low certainty), sedation interruption (OR 0.21, 95% CrI 0.06-0.69; very low certainty), opioid plus benzodiazepine (OR 0.27, 95% CrI 0.10-0.76; very low certainty), and protocolized sedation (OR 0.27, 95% CrI 0.09-0.80; very low certainty) may reduce delirium occurrence but the evidence is very uncertain. Dexmedetomidine probably reduces ICU length of stay compared to placebo (Ratio of Means (RoM) 0.78, CrI 0.64-0.95; moderate certainty) and compared to antipsychotics (RoM 0.76, CrI 0.61-0.98; low certainty). Sedative interruption, protocolized sedation and opioids may reduce hospital length of stay compared to placebo, but the evidence is very uncertain. No intervention influenced mechanical ventilation duration, mortality, or arrhythmia. Single and multi-component non-pharmacological interventions did not connect to any evidence networks to allow for ranking and comparisons as planned; pairwise comparisons did not detect differences compared to standard care.

CONCLUSION

Compared to placebo and benzodiazepines, we found dexmedetomidine likely reduced the occurrence of delirium in critically ill adults. Compared to benzodiazepines, sedation-minimization strategies may also reduce delirium occurrence, but the evidence is uncertain.

Effect of early cognitive interventions on delirium in critically ill patients: a systematic review

PURPOSE

A systematic review of the literature was conducted to determine the effects of early cognitive interventions on delirium outcomes in critically ill patients.

SOURCE

Search strategies were developed for MEDLINE, EMBASE, Joanna Briggs Institute, Cochrane, Scopus, and CINAHL databases. Eligible studies described the application of early cognitive interventions for delirium prevention or treatment within any intensive care setting. Study designs included randomized-controlled trials, quasi-experimental trials, and pre/post interventional trials. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias using Cochrane methodology.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Four hundred and four citations were found. Seven full-text articles were included in the final review. Six of the included studies had an overall serious, high, or critical risk of bias. After application of cognitive intervention protocols, a significant reduction in delirium incidence, duration, occurrence, and development was found in four studies. Feasibility of cognitive interventions was measured in three studies. Cognitive stimulation techniques were described in the majority of studies.

CONCLUSION

The study of early cognitive interventions in critically ill patients was identified in a small number of studies with limited sample sizes. An overall high risk of bias and variability within protocols limit the utility of the findings for widespread practice implications. This review may help to promote future large, multi-centre trials studying the addition of cognitive interventions to current delirium prevention practices. The need for robust data is essential to support the implementation of early cognitive interventions protocols.

Best Practices for Conducting Interprofessional Team Rounds to Facilitate Performance of the ICU Liberation (ABCDEF) Bundle

OBJECTIVES

Daily ICU interprofessional team rounds, which incorporate the ICU Liberation ("A" for Assessment, Prevention, and Manage Pain; "B" for Both Spontaneous Awakening Trials and Spontaneous Breathing Trials; "C" for Choice of Analgesia and Sedation; "D" for Delirium Assess, Prevent, and Manage; "E" for Early Mobility and Exercise; "F" for Family Engagement and Empowerment [ABCDEF]) Bundle, support both the care coordination and regular provider communication necessary for Bundle execution. This article describes evidence-based practices for conducting effective interprofessional team rounds in the ICU to improve Bundle performance.

DESIGN

Best practice synthesis.

METHODS

The authors, each extensively involved in the Society of Critical Care Medicine's ICU Liberation Campaign, reviewed the pertinent literature to identify how ICU interprofessional team rounds can be optimized to increase ICU Liberation adherence.

RESULTS

Daily ICU interprofessional team rounds that foster ICU Liberation Bundle use support both care coordination and regular provider communication within and between teams. Evidence-based best practices for conducting effective interprofessional team rounds in the ICU include the optimal structure for ICU interprofessional team rounds; the importance of conducting rounds at patients' bedside; essential participants in rounds; the inclusion of ICU patients and their families in rounds-based discussions; and incorporation of the Bundle into the Electronic Health Record. Interprofessional team rounds in the ICU ideally employ communication strategies to foster inclusive and supportive behaviors consistent with interprofessional collaboration in the ICU. Patient care discussions during interprofessional team rounds benefit from being patient-centered and goal-oriented. Documentation of ICU Liberation Bundle elements in the Electronic Health Record may help facilitate team communication and decision-making.

CONCLUSIONS

Conducting high-quality interprofessional team rounds in the ICU is a key strategy to support ICU Liberation Bundle use.

Psychometric evaluation of the family caregiver ICU delirium knowledge questionnaire

Background

Delirium is a common condition in critically ill patients, affecting nearly half of all patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). Family caregivers of critically ill patients can be partners in the early recognition, prevention and management of delirium provided they are aware of the signs/symptoms and appropriate non-pharmacological strategies that might be taken. Valid, reliable instruments that assess family caregiver knowledge are essential so that nurses can prepare family caregivers to be effective partners. The purpose of the current study was to (a) adapt an existing caregiver delirium knowledge questionnaire (CDKQ) for use by nurses to measure a family caregiver’s delirium knowledge in the ICU; and (b) examine the psychometric properties and structure of the adapted Caregiver ICU Delirium Knowledge Questionnaire (CIDKQ).

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a multidisciplinary team developed the 21-item CIDKQ (possible score range: 0–21) and administered it to 158 family caregivers of critically ill patients. Descriptive statistics were examined for all variables. The CIDKQ was analyzed for face validity, content validity, reliability and internal consistency.

Results

The mean CIDKQ score was 14.1 (SD: 3.5, range = 2 to 21). Path analysis revealed that a family caregiver’s delirium knowledge in the actions and symptoms dimensions had a direct effect on knowledge of delirium risk factors. The CIDKQ was found to have face validity and reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.79).

Conclusions

The findings indicated good validity and reliability of the CIDKQ as a measure of ICU delirium knowledge in family caregivers of critically ill patients.

Older Adults in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit: Factoring Geriatric Syndromes in the Management, Prognosis, and Process of Care: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Longevity is increasing, and more adults are living to the stage of life when age-related biological factors determine a higher likelihood of cardiovascular disease in a distinctive context of concurrent geriatric conditions. Older adults with cardiovascular disease are frequently admitted to cardiac intensive care units (CICUs), where care is commensurate with high age-related cardiovascular disease risks but where the associated geriatric conditions (including multimorbidity, polypharmacy, cognitive decline and delirium, and frailty) may be inadvertently exacerbated and destabilized. The CICU environment of procedures, new medications, sensory overload, sleep deprivation, prolonged bed rest, malnourishment, and sleep is usually inherently disruptive to older patients regardless of the excellence of cardiovascular disease care. Given these fundamental and broad challenges of patient aging, CICU management priorities and associated decision-making are particularly complex and in need of enhancements. In this American Heart Association statement, we examine age-related risks and describe some of the distinctive dynamics pertinent to older adults and emerging opportunities to enhance CICU care. Relevant assessment tools are discussed, as well as the need for additional clinical research to best advance CICU care for the already dominating and still expanding population of older adults.

Interprofessional Care and Teamwork in the ICU

OBJECTIVES

We describe the importance of interprofessional care in modern critical care medicine. This review highlights the essential roles played by specific members of the interprofessional care team, including patients and family members, and discusses quality improvement initiatives that require interprofessional collaboration for success.

DATA SOURCES

Studies were identified through MEDLINE search using a variety of search phrases related to interprofessional care, critical care provider types, and quality improvement initiatives. Additional articles were identified through a review of the reference lists of identified articles.

STUDY SELECTION

Original articles, review articles, and systematic reviews were considered.

DATA EXTRACTION

Manuscripts were selected for inclusion based on expert opinion of well-designed or key studies and review articles.

DATA SYNTHESIS

"Interprofessional care" refers to care provided by a team of healthcare professionals with overlapping expertise and an appreciation for the unique contribution of other team members as partners in achieving a common goal. A robust body of data supports improvement in patient-level outcomes when care is provided by an interprofessional team. Critical care nurses, advanced practice providers, pharmacists, respiratory care practitioners, rehabilitation specialists, dieticians, social workers, case managers, spiritual care providers, intensivists, and nonintensivist physicians each provide unique expertise and perspectives to patient care, and therefore play an important role in a team that must address the diverse needs of patients and families in the ICU. Engaging patients and families as partners in their healthcare is also critical. Many important ICU quality improvement initiatives require an interprofessional approach, including Awakening and Breathing Coordination, Delirium, Early Exercise/Mobility, and Family Empowerment bundle implementation, interprofessional rounding practices, unit-based quality improvement initiatives, Patient and Family Advisory Councils, end-of-life care, coordinated sedation awakening and spontaneous breathing trials, intrahospital transport, and transitions of care.

CONCLUSIONS

A robust body of evidence supports an interprofessional approach as a key component in the provision of high-quality critical care to patients of increasing complexity and with increasingly diverse needs.

Understanding the integration of family caregivers in delirium prevention care for hospitalized older adults: A case study protocol

AIM

To understand family caregiver involvement in delirium prevention care for older adults hospitalized for orthopaedic surgery hospitals and family caregiver integration by nurses.

DESIGN

Multiple-case study.

METHODS

The model of Care Partner Engagement was selected as theoretical framework. Eight cases will comprise an older adult hospitalized a family caregiver and a ward nurse. They will be recruited with a non-probability sampling on two orthopaedic surgery wards in two hospitals. Semi-structured interviews with participants will be audiotaped. Sociodemographic data will be collected. These data, researcher field notes and interview transcripts will be subjected to within- and across-case thematic analysis. Regional ethics committee approved the study protocol in August 2018.

DISCUSSION

The study will allow surgical nursing teams to gain a better understanding of the issues and possibilities regarding family caregiver integration in delirium prevention care for older adults.

Impacting Delirium in the Trauma ICU Utilizing the ICU Liberation Collaborative Benchmark Report

Delirium is a frequent complication of intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, manifesting as acute confusion with inattention and disordered thinking. Patients in the ICU who develop acute delirium are more likely to experience long-term disability and mortality. The Society of Critical Care Medicine published guidelines for the management of pain, agitation, and delirium (PAD) in the ICU in 2013. Based on these PAD guidelines, the ABCDEF bundle was created. Research is lacking on how adherence to the ABCDEF bundle elements impacts specific populations such as trauma patients. This represents a significant gap for patients whose multisystem injuries and comorbidities add a higher level of complexity to their care and outcomes. The medical ICU at a large community hospital participated in a 2-year quality improvement project as part of the Society of Critical Care Medicine's ICU Liberation Collaborative. However the organization's trauma ICU (TICU) was excluded from the study. The purpose of this study was to conduct a baseline assessment of trauma patient records to determine which bundle elements were already being applied in the TICU, and if the resources required for implementing the full ABCDEF bundle would be beneficial to the TICU patient outcomes. Benchmark data from the organization's participation in the ICU Liberation Collaborative quality improvement project served as the primary source of evidence. Analysis revealed strengths and opportunities for improvement. Incidence of delirium remained unchanged and far below national averages, indicating the need for further investigation into practices to verify this finding. An opportunity was identified to expand implementation of certain elements of the ABCDEF bundle in the trauma ICU. There is an opportunity for nurses to take the lead in improving patient outcomes. With improved education, evidence-based assessment tools, and best practice guidelines, nurses can help decrease the incidence of delirium by as much as 30%.

Enhanced Recovery in Surgical Intensive Care: A Review

Patients are admitted to the surgical intensive care (SICU) unit after emergency and elective surgery. After elective surgery, for further support, or to manage coexisting comorbidities. The implementation of the ERAS (Enhanced recovery after surgery) protocols in surgery should decrease the need for ICU beds, but there will always be unpredicted complications after surgery. These will require individual management. What we can do for our surgical patients in ICU to further enhance their recovery? To promote early enhanced recovery in surgical intensive care—SICU, three areas need to be addressed, sedation, analgesia, and delirium. Tools for measurement and protocols for management in these three areas should be developed to ensure best practice in each SICU. The fourth important area is Nutrition. Preoperative screening and post-operative measurement of the state of nutrition also need to be developed in the SICU. The fifth important area is early mobilization. ERAS protocols encourage early mobilization of the critically ill patients, even if on mechanical ventilation. Early mobilization is possible and should be implemented by special multidisciplinary ICU team. All team members must be familiar with protocols to be able to implement them in their field of expertise. Personal and professional attitudes are critical for implementation. In the core of all our efforts should be the patient and his well-being.

The experience of intensive care nurses caring for patients with delirium: A phenomenological study

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this research was to seek to understand the lived experience of intensive care nurses caring for patients with delirium. The objectives of this inquiry were: 1) To examine intensive care nurses' experiences of caring for adult patients with delirium; 2) To identify factors that facilitate or hinder intensive care nurses caring for these patients.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This study utilised an interpretive phenomenological approach as described by van Manen.

SETTING

Individual conversational interviews were conducted with eight intensive care nurses working in a tertiary level, university-affiliated hospital in Canada.

FINDINGS

The essence of the experience of nurses caring for patients with delirium in intensive care was revealed to be finding a way to help them come through it. Six main themes emerged: It's Exhausting; Making a Picture of the Patient's Mental Status; Keeping Patients Safe: It's aReally Big Job; Everyone Is Unique; Riding It Out With Families and Taking Every Experience With You.

CONCLUSION

The findings contribute to an understanding of how intensive care nurses help patients and their families through this complex and distressing experience.