Delirium and Associated Length of Stay and Costs in Critically Ill Patients

Improving the Recognition and Assessment of ICU Delirium

BACKGROUND

Delirium is acute neurological failure that alters cognition and results in a state of confusion and lack of self-awareness. It commonly affects critically ill patients within intensive care units (ICUs), and the wide array of fluctuating symptoms frequently leads to underdiagnosis. Delirium results in cognitive impairment and increased rates of fatality, and accurate assessments are essential for improving patient outcomes. Barriers to delirium assessment stem from a lack of knowledge and assessment training among ICU nurses.

METHOD

Using the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature electronic database, a literature synthesis was conducted, analyzing journal articles addressing delirium education and training among ICU nurses and barriers associated with assessment.

RESULTS

Current literature identifies methods to overcome barriers through training, education, and continuous reinforcement of delirium assessment. The goals of this review are to identify the barriers to delirium assessment and make recommendations for education methods to increase the confidence of ICU nurses in the recognition of delirium to improve patient outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Early identification of delirium is crucial to improving patient outcomes. A standardized delirium educational program should be developed and implemented throughout the U.S. health care system. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 202x;5x(x):xx-xx.].

Whole blood thiamine, intravenous thiamine supplementation and delirium occurrence in the intensive care unit: retrospective cohort analyses

BACKGROUND

Thiamine di-phosphate is an essential cofactor in glucose metabolism, glutamate transformation and acetylcholinesterase activity, pathways associated with delirium occurrence. We hypothesised that a deficiency in whole blood thiamine and intravenous thiamine supplementation could impact delirium occurrence.

AIM

To establish whether a deficiency in whole blood thiamine and/or intravenous thiamine supplementation within 72 h of intensive care admission is associated with delirium occurrence.

METHOD

The first dataset was secondary analysis of a previous study in an intensive care unit in the Netherlands, reported in 2017. The second dataset contained consecutive intensive care admissions 2 years before (period 1: October 2014 to October 2016) and after (period 2: April 2017 to April 2019) routine thiamine supplementation was introduced within 72 h of admission. Delirium was defined as a positive Confusion Assessment Method-Intensive Care Unit score(s) in 24 h.

RESULTS

Analysis of the first dataset (n = 57) using logistic regression showed no relationship between delirium and sepsis or whole blood thiamine, but a significant association with age (p = 0.014). In the second dataset (n = 3074), 15.1% received IV thiamine in period 1 and 62.6% during period 2. Hierarchical regression analysis reported reduction in delirium occurrence in the second period; this did not reach statistical significance, OR = 0.81 (95% CI 0.652-1.002); p = 0.052.

CONCLUSION

No relationship was detected between whole blood thiamine and delirium occurrence on admission, at 24 and 48 h. It remains unclear whether routine intravenous thiamine supplementation during intensive care admission impacts delirium occurrence. Further prospective randomised clinical trials are needed.

Patient Outcomes and Management Strategies for Intensive Care Unit (ICU)-Associated Delirium: A Literature Review

Delirium is a significant public health concern, with tremendous implications for patient outcomes. Intensive care unit (ICU)-related delirium is gaining attention due to the higher prevalence of delirium in ICU-admitted patients. The most common negative outcomes of ICU delirium include cognitive impairments, functional dependence, high incidence of mortality, extended stay in the ICU, and high costs. So far, no single etiological factor has been identified as the sole cause of delirium. Several functional, neurotransmitter, or injury-causing hypotheses have been proposed for ICU delirium. Several risk factors contribute to the development of delirium in patients admitted to the ICU. These are age, gender, types of sedation, physical restraints, medical and surgical interventions, pain, and extended stay in the ICU. The most commonly used assessment modules for ICU delirium are the PREdiction of DELIRium in ICu patients (PRE-DELIRIC), Early PREdiction model for DELIRium in ICu patients (E-PRE-DELERIC), and Lanzhou Model, Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU), Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist (ICDSC), and Delirium Rating Scale (DRS). There is no proper treatment for ICU delirium; however, it can be managed through various pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Healthcare providers should receive constant education and training on delirium recognition, prevention, and management to enhance patient care and outcomes in the ICU. Further research is needed on the effective prevention and management of ICU delirium.

Implementing pain, agitation, delirium, and sleep deprivation protocol in critically ill patients: A pilot study on pharmacological interventions

Critically ill patients frequently experience pain, agitation, delirium, and sleep deprivation, which have been linked to increased mortality and unfavorable clinical outcomes. To address these challenges, the Pain, Agitation, Delirium, and Sleep Deprivation (PADS) protocol was developed, aiming to mitigate mortality and improve clinical outcomes. This study focuses on assessing the protocol's impact using a robust before-and-after study design in the medical and surgical intensive care units (ICUs) at Ramathibodi Hospital. Using an observational approach, this study compares clinical outcomes before and after implementing the PADS protocol in the ICUs. Two patient cohorts were identified: the "before" group, comprising 254 patients with retrospective data collected between May 2018 and September 2019, and the "after" group, consisting of 255 patients for whom prospective data was collected from May to September 2020. Analysis reveals improvements in the after group. Specifically, there was a significant increase in 14-day ICU-free days (9.95 days vs. 10.40 days, p value = 0.014), a decrease in delirium incidence (18.1% vs. 16.1%, p value < 0.001), and a significant reduction in benzodiazepine usage (38.6% vs. 24.6%, p value = 0.001) within the after group. This study emphasizes the protocol's potential to improve patient care and highlights its significance in the ICU context.

Delirium incidence, predictors and outcomes in the intensive care unit: A prospective cohort study

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence, predictors, and outcomes of delirium in intensive care units.

BACKGROUND

Delirium is a common complication in intensive care units. In developing countries, it can be misdiagnosed or unrecognised.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study reported according to the strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology criteria.

METHODS

We included patients who were conscious, >18 years old, and admitted to the intensive care units for at least 8 h between December 2019 and February 2020. Patients with a Richmond score of -4 or -5, mental disability, receptive aphasia and/or visual or auditory impairment were excluded from the study. Delirium was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method for the ICU (CAM-ICU), whereas the functional outcome was assessed by the Katz Activity of Daily Living Index.

RESULTS

This study included 111 patients with a delirium incidence of 31.5%. The severity of illness was the only significant predictor of delirium. Patients with delirium had longer intensive care unit and in-hospital stays in contrast to those without delirium. Delirium was associated with in-hospital and 4-month mortality but not the activities of daily living.

CONCLUSIONS

Delirium is associated with increased length of stay and mortality. Further investigation to determine whether delirium management can improve outcomes is warranted.

There's No Place Like Home: Delirium as a Barrier in Geriatric Trauma

INTRODUCTION

Delirium is associated with a three-fold increase in frequency of 6-mo mortality following intensive care unit admission. Outside of mortality, it has been linked with severe morbidity including long-term cognitive decline, loss of autonomy, and increased risk of institutionalization. There is a paucity of literature regarding delirium and geriatric trauma patients. The aim of our study is to determine predictive factors of delirium in geriatric trauma patients.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of all geriatric (>65 y) trauma patients with a documented frailty score at a Level I Trauma Center from 1/2019 to 9/2021. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed. Geriatric patients with delirium (D) and those without delirium (ND) were compared. Patients were excluded if they did not have a documented frailty score or died before admission.

RESULTS

One thousand three hundred and seventeen patients met criteria; 40 (3%) patients developed delirium. Neither age nor gender was different between the two groups. Frailty scores were not different between the two groups. Patients with documented delirium had a higher incidence of a positive drug screen on admission (85% versus 62.2%, P = 0.0034), higher median injury severity score (10 versus 9, P = 0.0088), and longer hospital (7 d versus 3 d, P < 0.001) and intensive care unit (1 d versus 0 d, P < 0.001) length of stay (LOS) than their ND counterparts. The D group had a higher frequency of benzodiazepine (47.5% versus 19.3%, P < 0.001) and narcotic use (77.5% versus 56.5%, P = 0.0085). Tethers nor bedrest orders were significantly associated with delirium. Incidence of urinary tract infection (12.5% versus 1%, P < 0.001) and restraint use (P < 0.001) were significantly associated with increased risk of delirium. Additionally, those with a diagnosis of delirium were more often discharged to a skilled nursing facility than those in the ND group (45% versus 30.8%, P = 0.0006).

CONCLUSIONS

We aimed to identify key predictive factors of delirium in our study population and found that certain factors correlated with higher frequencies of delirium in our geriatric trauma patients. Preadmission and early controlled substance use were significantly associated with delirium, as were the presence of urinary tract infection and extended intensive care unit LOS. By recognizing some of these modifiable factors, LOS may decrease while increasing the likelihood of discharge home.

Dementia and Postoperative Delirium in Surgical Hip Fracture Patients: Unveiling Contrasting Risk Factors and Implications

Postoperative delirium is a serious complication, particularly in older adults with hip fractures. Using the 2019 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data file, we performed multiple regression analyses to compare risk factors for postoperative delirium in hip fracture patients with and without dementia. Preoperative delirium and mobility aid use were common risk factors in both groups. However, differential effects were observed for other factors. Pathological fracture increased delirium risk in patients with dementia but had a protective effect in those without dementia. In patients with dementia, American Society of Anesthesiology score IV/V was identified as a risk factor, whereas advanced age, severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, weight loss, sepsis, elevated international normalized ratio, and serum creatinine level were additional risk factors in patients without dementia. These findings enhance our understanding of the complex relationship among dementia, hip fractures, and postoperative delirium. Identifying specific risk factors for each group can inform tailored interventions and preventive strategies. Further research is needed to validate and expand these findings, ultimately improving care and outcomes. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49(12), 25-30.].

Effects of an interactive handgrip game on surgical patients requiring intensive care: An assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of an interactive handgrip game on psychological distress and handgrip strength among critically ill surgical patients.

DESIGN

A randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

A surgical intensive care unit.

INTERVENTION

Participants were enrolled in the program within 48 hours of admission to the intensive care unit. Patients in the intervention group played a 20-minute interactive handgrip game twice daily for a maximum of three days in the intensive care unit in addition to routinely passive physical rehabilitation. Patients in the routine care group had a daily target of 20 min of passive physical rehabilitation as needed.

MEASUREMENT

The primary outcomes included depression, anxiety, and stress measured using the shortened version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Score scale. The secondary outcomes were perceived sleep evaluated using the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire, delirium assessed using the Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist, and handgrip strength measured using handgrip dynamometry within a handgrip device.

RESULTS

Two hundred and twenty-seven patients were eligible and 70 patients were recruited in the intervention (n = 35) and routine care groups (n = 35). The patients in the intervention group had lower scores (median = 6.0, 4.0, and 12.0) for depression, anxiety, and stress compared with those in the routine care group (12.0, 12.0, and 20.0; all p < 0.05). The interactive handgrip game did not significantly improve sleep quality and prevent the occurrence of delirium (both p > 0.05). The patients who received the interactive handgrip game intervention exhibited significantly enhanced handgrip strength in both hands over time (both p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

An interactive handgrip game may benefit the psychological well-being and handgrip strength of critically ill patients.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE

Interactive handgrip games is effective active exercise which should be integrated into routine nursing practice.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Delirium in Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Units: A Multicentric Cross-Sectional Study

Background Delirium is a common and serious complication among critically ill patients in the intensive care unit. Knowledge of the risk factors of delirium can help tremendously in the diagnosis of delirium. Methods In April of 2023, a cross-sectional multicenter study was conducted in eight intensive care units (ICUs) across Pakistan. Delirium was assessed using the intensive care delirium screening checklist. Demographic and clinical data were collected, and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of delirium. A total of 256 patients were enrolled in the study. Results The mean age of participants was 56 (S.D. 12) years. The point prevalence of delirium was 39%, and the point prevalence did not vary significantly among the participating intensive care units. Advanced age, higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation - IV (APACHE IV) scores, and higher Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS) scores at enrollment were identified as significant predictors of delirium. Conclusion The high prevalence of delirium, observed at 39.0%, emphasizes the importance of proactive screening and effective management strategies in the ICU setting. Healthcare providers in Pakistan should be mindful of these risk factors and implement preventive measures to minimize the occurrence of delirium in critically ill patients. Further research and implementation of targeted interventions are warranted to improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall quality of care in this population.

Hospital length of stay prediction tools for all hospital admissions and general medicine populations: systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Unwarranted extended length of stay (LOS) increases the risk of hospital-acquired complications, morbidity, and all-cause mortality and needs to be recognized and addressed proactively.

Objective

This systematic review aimed to identify validated prediction variables and methods used in tools that predict the risk of prolonged LOS in all hospital admissions and specifically General Medicine (GenMed) admissions.

Method

LOS prediction tools published since 2010 were identified in five major research databases. The main outcomes were model performance metrics, prediction variables, and level of validation. Meta-analysis was completed for validated models. The risk of bias was assessed using the PROBAST checklist.

Results

Overall, 25 all admission studies and 14 GenMed studies were identified. Statistical and machine learning methods were used almost equally in both groups. Calibration metrics were reported infrequently, with only 2 of 39 studies performing external validation. Meta-analysis of all admissions validation studies revealed a 95% prediction interval for theta of 0.596 to 0.798 for the area under the curve. Important predictor categories were co-morbidity diagnoses and illness severity risk scores, demographics, and admission characteristics. Overall study quality was deemed low due to poor data processing and analysis reporting.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review assessing the quality of risk prediction models for hospital LOS in GenMed and all admissions groups. Notably, both machine learning and statistical modeling demonstrated good predictive performance, but models were infrequently externally validated and had poor overall study quality. Moving forward, a focus on quality methods by the adoption of existing guidelines and external validation is needed before clinical application.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier: CRD42021272198.

S100B as a predictor of delirium in critically ill obstetric patients: A nested case-control study

Background

Delirium is a neuropsychiatric illness that lasts for a short period of time. The incidence of delirium in the intensive care unit (ICU) varies from 20% to 80%.

Methods

A nested case-control study was carried out in the obstetric ICU. Individuals were divided into three groups: critically ill obstetric women who had delirium on admission (Group A), women who developed delirium within follow-up of 7 days (Group B), and women who did not develop delirium after follow-up of 7 days (Group C). The APACHE II score was used to assess critical illness severity. The Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale was used to assess the alertness or sedation level of patients, and the Confusion Assessment Method (ICU scale) was used to assess the presence of delirium. S100B was measured by human S100B calcium-binding protein B ELISA kit (Elabscience Biotechnology, Houston, USA).

Results

Severe preeclampsia and antepartum eclampsia were significantly associated with delirium. S100B levels in Group B were found to be significantly higher than those in Group C. S100B levels were higher in patients with >2 morbidities in comparison to patients with two morbidities. At a cutoff value of >169.25 pg/ml, S100B had a sensitivity of 74% and a specificity of 87.2% to discriminate cases of delirium from nondelirium.

Conclusion

The rise in S100B levels was approximately three times greater in those who developed delirium as compared to those who did not. It is a more specific predictor of delirium.

Correlation of C-reactive Protein with Delirium in Obstetrics Intensive Care Unit: A Tertiary Center Experience

Background

Delirium is a neuropsychiatric illness. It affects critically ill patients on ventilator and increases mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of C-reactive protein (CRP) level with delirium in critically obstetrics women and its role in prediction of delirium.

Materials and methods

Arospective observational study was conducted in the intensive care unit (ICU), and the duration of study was one year. Total 145 subjects were recruited, 33 patients were excluded, and 112 subjects were studied. For study, group A (n = 36) includes critically ill obstetric women who had delirium on admission; group B (n = 37) includes critically ill obstetric women who developed delirium within 7 days; and group C (n = 39) that includes critically ill obstetric women who did not develop delirium after follow-up of 7 days was served as control. Disease severity was assessed by using acute physiologic assessment and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II score, and Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS) was used to assess awakeness. In awake patients (RASS of ≥3), delirium was assessed by the use of confusion assessment method for ICU tools. C-reactive protein measured by particle enhanced turbidimetric immunoassay-two point kinetic method.

Results

The mean ages of group A, B, and C were 26.44 ± 4.72, 27.46 ± 4.97, and 28.26 ± 5.67 years, respectively. C-reactive protein levels on the day of delirium development (group B) were found to be significantly higher than day 1 CRP levels of groups A and C. The mean Global Attentiveness Rating (GAR) was significantly lower in groups A and B as compared to that in group C (p < 0.001). On evaluating the correlation of CRP with GAR, it was found to be inverse and mild in strength for the correlation between CRP and GAR (r = -0.403, p < 0.001). At a cut-off value of >181 mg/L, CRP had sensitivity of 93.2% and specificity of 69.2%. The positive predictive value was 85% and the negative predictive value was 84.4% that differentiate delirium from non-delirium.

Conclusion

C-reactive protein is a useful tool for screening and prediction of delirium in critically ill obstetric patients.

How to cite this article

Shyam R, Patel ML, Solanki M, Sachan R, Ali W. Correlation of C-reactive Protein with Delirium in Obstetrics Intensive Care Unit: A Tertiary Center Experience. Indian J Crit Care Med 2023;27(5):315-321.

Delirium in trauma ICUs: a review of incidence, risk factors, outcomes, and management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews the impact and importance of delirium on patients admitted to the ICU after trauma, including the latest work on prevention and treatment of this condition. As the population ages, the incidence of geriatric trauma will continue to increase with a concomitant rise in the patient and healthcare costs of delirium in this population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have further defined the risk factors for delirium in the trauma ICU patient population, as well as better demonstrated the poor outcomes associated with the diagnosis of delirium in these patients. Recent trials and meta-analysis offer some new evidence for the use of dexmedetomidine and quetiapine as preferred agents for prevention and treatment of delirium and add music interventions as a promising part of nonpharmacologic bundles.

SUMMARY

Trauma patients requiring admission to the ICU are at significant risk of developing delirium, an acute neuropsychiatric disorder associated with increased healthcare costs and worse outcomes including increased mortality. Ideal methods for prevention and treatment of delirium are not well established, especially in this population, but recent research helps to clarify optimal prevention and treatment strategies.

Incidence, Subtypes, Risk factors, and Outcome of Delirium: A Prospective Observational Study from Indian Intensive Care Unit

Background

Delirium is a common, under-recognized, and often fatal condition in critically ill patients, characterized by acute disorder of attention and cognition. The global prevalence varies with a negative impact on outcomes. A paucity of Indian studies exists that have systematically assessed delirium.

Objective

A prospective observational study designed to determine the incidence, subtypes, risk factors, complications, and outcome of delirium in Indian intensive care units (ICUs).

Patients and methods

Among 1198 adult patients screened during the study period (December 2019-September 2021), 936 patients were included. The confusion assessment method score (CAM-ICU) and Richmond agitation sedation scale (RASS) were used, with additional confirmation of delirium by the psychiatrist/neurophysician. Risk factors and related complications were compared with a control group.

Results

Delirium occurred in 22.11% of critically ill patients. The hypoactive subtype was the most common (44.9%). The risk factors recognized were higher age, increased acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE-II) score, hyperuricemia, raised creatinine, hypoalbuminemia, hyperbilirubinemia, alcoholism, and smoking. Precipitating factors included patients admitted on noncubicle beds, proximity to the nursing station, requiring ventilation, as well as the use of sedatives, steroids, anticonvulsants, and vasopressors. Complications observed in the delirium group were unintentional removal of catheters (35.7%), aspiration (19.8%), need for reintubation (10.6%), decubitus ulcer formation (18.4%), and high mortality (21.3% vs 5%).

Conclusion

Delirium is common in Indian ICUs with a potential effect on length of stay and mortality. Identification of incidence, subtype, and risk factors is the first step toward prevention of this important cognitive dysfunction in the ICU.

How to cite this article

Tiwari AM, Zirpe KG, Khan AZ, Gurav SK, Deshmukh AM, Suryawanshi PB, et al. Incidence, Subtypes, Risk factors, and Outcome of Delirium: A Prospective Observational Study from Indian Intensive Care Unit. Indian J Crit Care Med 2023;27(2):111-118.

Incidence, characteristics and risk factors of delirium in the intensive care unit: An observational study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence, characteristics and risk factors of delirium in the ICU.

BACKGROUND

Identifying the risk factors of delirium is important for early detection and to prevent adverse consequences.

DESIGN

An observational cohort study conducted according to STROBE Guidelines.

METHOD

The study was conducted with patients who stayed in ICU ≥24 h and were older than 18 years. Patients were assessed twice daily using the RASS and CAM-ICU until either discharge or death. Cumulative incidence was calculated. Demographic/clinical characteristics, length of stay and mortality were compared between patients with and without delirium. A logistic regression model was used to investigate risk factors.

RESULTS

The incidence of delirium was 31.8% and hypoactive type was the most frequent (41.5%). The median onset of delirium was 3 days (IQR = 2) with a mean duration of 5.27 ± 2.32 days. Patients with delirium were significantly older, had higher APACHE-II, SOFA and CPOT scores, higher blood urea levels, higher requirements for mechanical ventilation, sedation and physical restraints, longer stays in the ICU and higher mortality than those without delirium. The logistic regression analysis results revealed that a CPOT score ≥3 points (OR = 4.70, 95% CI: 1.05-20.93; p = .042), physical restraint (OR = 10.40, 95% CI: 2.75-39.27; p = .001) and ICU stay ≥7 days (OR = 7.26, 95% CI: 1.60-32.84; p = .010) were independent risk factors of delirium.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the incidence of delirium was high and associated with several factors. It is critical that delirium is considered by all members of the healthcare team, especially nurses, and that protocols are established for improvements.

RELEVANCE TO THE CLINICAL PRACTICE

Based on the results of this study, delirium could be decreased by preventing the presence of pain, prudent use of physical restraints and shortening the ICU stay.

Occupational therapist-guided cognitive interventions in critically ill patients: a feasibility randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

Intensive care unit (ICU) delirium is a common complication of critical illness requiring a multimodal approach to management. We assessed the feasibility of a novel occupational therapist (OT)-guided cognitive intervention protocol, titrated according to sedation level, in critically ill patients.

METHODS

Patients aged ≥ 18 yr admitted to a medical/surgical ICU were randomized to the standard delirium prevention protocol or to the OT-guided cognitive intervention protocol in addition to standard of care. The target enrolment number was N = 112. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the study enrolment period was truncated. The primary outcome was feasibility of the intervention as measured by the proportion of eligible cognitive interventions delivered by the OT. Secondary outcomes included feasibility of goal session length (20 min), participant clinical outcomes (delirium prevalence and duration, cognitive status, functional status, quality of life, and ICU length of stay), and a description of methodological challenges and solutions for future research.

RESULTS

Seventy patients were enrolled and 69 patients were included in the final analysis. The majority of OT-guided sessions (110/137; 80%) were completed. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) number of sessions per patient was 4.1 (3.8). The goal session length was achieved (mean [SD], 19.8 [3.1] min), with few sessions (8/110; 7%) terminated early per patient request.

CONCLUSION

This novel OT-guided cognitive intervention protocol is feasible in medical/surgical ICU patients. A larger randomized controlled trial is required to determine the impact of such a protocol on delirium prevalence or duration.

STUDY REGISTRATION

www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov (NCT03604809); registered 18 June 2018.

Liver diseases as a novel risk factor for delirium in the ICU-Delirium and hepatic encephalopathy are two distinct entities

BACKGROUND

Delirium prevalence is high in critical care settings. We examined the incidence, risk factors, and outcome of delirium in a medical intensive care unit (MICU) with a particular focus on liver diseases. We analyzed this patient population in terms of delirium risk prediction and differentiation between delirium and hepatic encephalopathy.

METHODS

We conducted an observational study and included 164 consecutive patients admitted to an MICU of a university hospital. Patients were assessed for delirium using the Confusion Assessment Method for ICUs and the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS). On admission and at the onset of delirium Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score was determined. A population of patients with liver disease was compared to a population with gastrointestinal diseases. In the population with liver diseases, hepatic encephalopathy was graded according to the West Haven classification. We analyzed the incidence, subtype, predisposing, precipitating, and health-care setting-related factors, treatment, outcome of delirium and the association between delirium and hepatic encephalopathy in patients with liver diseases.

RESULTS

The incidence of delirium was 32.5% (n = 53). Univariable binary regression analyses adjusted by the Holm-Bonferroni method showed that the development of delirium was significantly determined by 10 risk factors: Alcohol abuse (p = 0.016), severity of disease (Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) II, p = 0.016), liver diseases (p = 0.030) and sepsis (p = 0.016) compared to the control group (gastrointestinal (GI) diseases and others), increased sodium (p = 0.016), creatinine (p = 0.030), urea (p = 0.032) or bilirubin (p = 0.042), decreased hemoglobin (p = 0.016), and mechanical ventilation (p = 0.016). Of note, we identified liver diseases as a novel and relevant risk factor for delirium. Hepatic encephalopathy was not a risk factor for delirium. Delirium and hepatic encephalopathy are both life-threatening but clearly distinct conditions. The median SOFA score for patients with delirium at delirium onset was significantly higher than the SOFA score of all patients at admission (p = 0.008). Patients with delirium had five times longer ICU stays (p = 0.004) and three times higher in-hospital mortality (p = 0.036). Patients with delirium were five times more likely to be transferred to an intensive medical rehabilitation unit for post-intensive care (p = 0.020). Treatment costs per case were more than five times higher in patients with delirium than in patients without delirium (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

The 10 risk factors identified in this study should be assessed upon admission to ICU for effective detection, prevention, and treatment of delirium. Liver diseases are a novel risk factor for delirium with a level of significance comparable to sepsis as an established risk factor. Of note, in patients with liver diseases delirium and hepatic encephalopathy should be recognized as distinct entities to initiate appropriate treatment. Therefore, we propose a new algorithm for efficient diagnosis, characterization, and treatment of altered mental status in the ICU. This algorithm integrates the 10 risk factor prediction-model for delirium and prompts grading of the severity of hepatic encephalopathy using the West Haven classification if liver disease is present or newly diagnosed.

Melatonin and Its Analogs for Prevention of Post-cardiac Surgery Delirium: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

The effectiveness of melatonin and its analogs in preventing postoperative delirium (POD) following cardiac surgery is controversial. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to confirm the benefits of melatonin and its analogs on delirium prevention in adults who underwent cardiac surgery.

Methods

We systematically searched the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, and EBSCOhost databases, the last search was performed in October 2021 and repeated before publication. The controlled studies were included if investigated the impact of melatonin and its analogs on POD in adults who underwent cardiac surgery. The primary outcome was the incidence of delirium. The Stata statistical software 17.0 was used to perform this study.

Results

This meta-analysis included eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and two cohort studies with a total of 1,714 patients. The results showed that melatonin and ramelteon administration were associated with a significantly lower incidence of POD in adults who underwent cardiac surgery (odds ratio [OR], 0.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.29–0.74; P = 0.001). The subgroup analyses confirmed that melatonin 3 mg (OR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.18–0.76; P = 0.007) and 5 mg (OR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.21–0.56; P < 0.001) significantly reduced the incidence of POD.

Conclusion

Melatonin at dosages of 5 and 3 mg considerably decreased the risk of delirium in adults who underwent cardiac surgery, according to our results. Cautious interpretation of our results is important owing to the modest number of studies included in this meta-analysis and the heterogeneity among them.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021246984.

Identification of Potential Key circRNAs in Aged Mice With Postoperative Delirium

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common postoperative complication in elderly patients and seriously affects postoperative recovery. The exact mechanism of POD is still unclear. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the mechanism of POD in transcriptional regulation. At present, circRNAs have been proven to play an important role in a variety of mental health and cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, depression and schizophrenia. To reveal the effect of circRNA on POD, we used microarray to analyze the differential expression profiles of circRNAs in the hippocampus of 12-month-old mice between the tibial fracture and control groups. A total of 1,4236 circRNAs were identified. Compared with the control group, there were 500 circRNAs with increased expression and 187 with decreased expression. The accuracy of the microarray data was further verified by qRT–PCR. Finally, GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analyses indicated that changes in axon orientation, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, glutamate synapses, the estrogen signaling pathway, the RAS signaling pathway and other systems may be important potential pathological mechanisms in the progression of POD. In particular, we found that the HOMER1 gene and its transcript mmu_circRNA_26701 are specifically expressed in the glutamate synapse, which may provide new clues and intervention targets for the progression of this refractory disease.

[Delirium prevention and management: Development and implementation of a non-pharmacological catalog of measures in the acute setting]

Delirium prevention and management: Development and implementation of a non-pharmacological catalog of measures in the acute setting Abstract. Background: In October 2018, a new delirium management concept was developed in a university hospital for cardiovascular diseases. As part of a multi-professional approach, the previously established "Evidence-based Nursing working group (AK EBN)", consisting of academically qualified nurses from the hospital, was involved in the implementation process. Aim: The AK EBN aimed to identify effective non-pharmacological interventions to prevent and treat delirium and to establish how these interventions could influence delirium rates in hospital patients. Methods: The EbN method was employed to address the study question applying the PICO framework (Behrens & Langer, 2016) as the bases for systematic searches in different databases. Relevant studies were identified, data were extracted, displayed in tables and discussed within the AK using established critical appraisal tools for quality assessment. Results: Despite a heterogeneous study sample, results showed that there is meaningful evidence for the effectiveness of intervention bundles on the reduction of delirium rates. Bundles include for example, aspects of orientation and noise reduction. As a result, a catalogue of non-pharmacological interventions, communication aids, and a guide for involving caregivers in the prevention and treatment of delirium were developed. Additionally, continuing training events held by the participants of AK EBN were organized. Conclusions: To promote the successful implementation of projects in practice, the involvement of all stakeholders is important. As part of a skill-grade-mix, nurses made an important contribution in this multi-professional project.

Predicting hospital mortality and length of stay: A prospective cohort study comparing the Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist versus Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to compare two tools, the Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist (ICDSC) and Confusion Assessment Method for the intensive care unit (ICU) (CAM-ICU), for their predictive validity for outcomes related to delirium, hospital mortality, and length of stay (LOS).

METHODS

The prospective study conducted in six medical ICUs at a tertiary care hospital in Taiwan enrolled consecutive patients (≥20 years) without delirium at ICU admission. Delirium was screened daily using the ICDSC and CAM-ICU in random order. Arousal was assessed by the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS). Participants with any one positive result were classified as ICDSC- or CAM-ICU-delirium groups.

RESULTS

Delirium incidence evaluated by the ICDSC and CAM-ICU were 69.1% (67/97) and 50.5% (49/97), respectively. Although the ICDSC identified 18 more cases as delirious, substantial concordance (κ = 0.63; p < 0.001) was found between tools. Independent of age, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, and Charlson Comorbidity Index, both ICDSC- and CAM-ICU-rated delirium significantly predicted hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio: 4.93; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.56 to 15.63 vs. 2.79; 95% CI: 1.12 to 6.97, respectively), and only the ICDSC significantly predicted hospital LOS with a mean of 17.59 additional days compared with the no-delirium group. Irrespective of delirium status, a sensitivity analysis of normal-to-increased arousal (RASS≥0) test results did not alter the predictive ability of ICDSC- or CAM-ICU-delirium for hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio: 2.97; 95% CI: 1.06 to 8.37 vs. 3.82; 95% CI: 1.35 to 10.82, respectively). With reduced arousal (RASS<0), neither tool significantly predicted mortality or LOS.

CONCLUSIONS

The ICDSC identified more delirium cases and may have higher predictive validity for mortality and LOS than the CAM-ICU. However, arousal substantially affected performance. Future studies may want to consider patients' arousal when deciding which tool to use to maximise the effects of delirium identification on patient mortality.