Delirium in a Medical Intensive Care Unit: Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcomes

Abstract

Objective: Delirium is a common problem in critical care. Its prevalence in the unit varies, depending upon the severity of the illness and the diagnostic methods. Currently, the CAM-ICU is a diagnostic tool with good diagnostic accuracy. Our study aimed to determine the prevalence, associated factors, and outcomes of delirium in our unit by using the CAM-ICU. Methods: Our prospective cohort study included all patients admitted to the hospital’s medical ICU from August to December, 2013. Patients with psychosis and/or in a coma (RAAS 70 years, anemia and metabolic acidosis remained significant on multivariate analysis. Delirium was significantly associated with prolonged hospitalization (>30 days), with OR = 4.84 (p=0.009), and with increased mortality, with OR = 25.0 (p=0.001). Conclusion: This study confirmed that delirium was common in the medical ICU and was associated with poor outcomes. Importantly, associated factors with delirium in our study appeared to be modifiable. Further study on early management and prevention of those risk factors is crucial.