Delirium in nursing homes and long-term care facilities: findings of a scoping review of detection tools

Abstract

Aim: To identify and evaluate delirium detection tools and their psychometric properties in nursing homes and long-term care (LTC) settings. Findings: A total of 25 delirium detection tools were identified, with the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) and its variants being the most frequently used. Only 14 tools have undergone validity and reliability testing in LTC settings, with the Delirium Observation Screening Scale (DOSS) showing the highest diagnostic accuracy. The Delirium Diagnostic Tool-Provisional (DDT-Pro) requires the least number of items to cover all three delirium domains. Message: There is a need for standardized delirium detection tools and improved staff training in LTC settings to enhance early detection and management of delirium.