ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Orthopedic clinics are among the leading clinics in hospitals that request consultation for patients with delirium. However, delirium is often missed by nurses and physicians, resulting in an incorrect diagnosis. This study aimed to identify patients with delirium in the orthopedic clinics and describe our approach for these patients.

MATERIAL and METHODS

After forming a strategy for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with delirium, prospective follow-up was performed for patients hospitalized in the orthopedic ward. High-risk patients were screened using the Nursing Delirium Screening Scale, and patients diagnosed with delirium were evaluated using a prepared form. This approach was used to determine the risk factors for delirium, ensure patient safety, and treat the symptoms of delirium.

RESULTS

Total 988 patients were evaluated, and 34 (2.44%) were diagnosed with delirium. The mean age of the patients was 66.17±22.68 years. The mean duration of delirium was 2.88±0.84 days. An age group-based comparison showed that the duration of delirium in older patients was significantly longer than that in younger patients (3.08±0.9 vs. 2.45±0.52 d, p=0.042). Further, delirium duration was more among men than among women (3.0 vs. 2.2 d, p=0.031).

CONCLUSION

Rapid identification of delirium and determination of the etiological cause allows timely and appropriate correction of the condition Identification of delirium by the medical team and the use of a systemic approach are important in treatment. The duration of delirium is longer in men and the elderly; further, most delirious patients have more than one risk factor for delirium.