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Review
. 2021;11(4):516-523.
doi: 10.1007/s40140-021-00476-z. Epub 2021 Sep 3.

Delirium in Intensive Care

Lone Musaeus Poulsen  1 , Stine Estrup  2 , Camilla Bekker Mortensen  1 , Nina Christine Andersen-Ranberg  1
Affiliations
Review

Delirium in Intensive Care

Lone Musaeus Poulsen et al. Curr Anesthesiol Rep. 2021.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Delirium in the intensive care unit (ICU) has become increasingly acknowledged as a significant problem for critically ill patients affecting both the actual course of illness as well as outcomes. In this review, we focus on the current evidence and the gaps in knowledge.

Recent findings: This review highlights several areas in which the evidence is weak and further research is needed in both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment. A better understanding of subtypes and their different response to therapy is needed and further studies in aetiology are warranted. Larger studies are needed to explore risk factors for developing delirium and for examining long-term consequences. Finally, a stronger focus on experienced delirium and considering the perspectives of both patients and their families is encouraged.

Summary: With the growing number of studies and a better framework for research leading to stronger evidence, the outcomes for patients suffering from delirium will most definitely improve in the years to come.

Keywords: CAM-ICU; Core outcome; Delirium; Intensive care; Non-pharmacological; Pharmacological; Risk factors.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of InterestThe authors declare no competing interests.

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