[Incidence of delirium in a geriatric ward of a university hospital]

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of delirium based on the CAM scale in a geriatric ward in a university hospital. This paper describes the numbers of predisposing and precipitating factors are compared with the development of delirium. Finally, we present a discussion about treatment and prophylaxis.

Materials and methods: Over a period of eight weeks, all newly admitted patients were interviewed and scored with CAM. The numbers of predisposing and precipitating factors were registered. Finally, the treatment was focused upon.

Results: 270 patients were admitted, 222 patients were interviewed and 48 patients were excluded. The prevalence of delirium was 7%. We were unable to find a correlation between risk factors or precipitating factors and delirium for this population.

Conclusion: The prevalence of 7% is a satisfying result. There is a discrepancy between diagnosing delirium with CAM and the doctors' routine. All patients must be considered as high-risk patients. Treatment has not been completely standardised.