Authors

  1. Kim, Heejeong MSN, RN
  2. Lee, Sun-Mi PhD, MPH, RN

Abstract

Background: Delirium is an important issue related to mortality in patients treated in intensive care units.

 

Local problem: Although there are guidelines for preventing delirium, its importance may be overlooked compared with the treatment of physical illness.

 

Methods: A 2-step delirium prevention campaign (DPC) was implemented and its effects compared (before and after the DPC).

 

Interventions: The DPC comprised the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit and a checklist for delirium prevention.

 

Results: Hospital mortality declined after the DPC, but there were no significant changes in the incidence and duration of delirium.

 

Conclusions: Nurses led the delirium preventive care intervention. Delirium prevention care may be more effective with policy approaches to progress the DPC.