Nursing responsibilities and non-pharmacological approaches in delirium management

Abstract

Delirium is a common clinical syndrome; characterized by rapid onset and fluctuating symptoms during the day. A decrease in functional capacity, an increase in length of stay at the hospital, and an increase in mortality are negative results seen in delirious patients. Therefore, patients should be assessed at least once a day in terms of delirium that may develop due to underlying factors. Because delirium monitoring does not contribute to improvement in delirium itself, delirium prevention and treatment methods are needed. Non-pharmacological approaches include re-orientation, reduction of environmental stimuli, early mobility, providing hydration and sleep hygiene. Frequently used nonpharma-cological approaches in delirium management are easy to implement, cost effective and directly related to nursing care. However, few studies document information about which approaches are used or the content and effects of these approaches. This review aims to discuss non-pharmacological approaches used in the management of delirium and the nursing responsibilities based on recent literature.