OVoiD delirium and improved outcomes in acute care. Introducing a model of care.

Anne Hoolahan, Clinical Nurse Consultant Dementia, Northern Sydney Local Health District

www.ajan.com.au/Vol29/29-2_Hoolahan.pdf

Delirium, in the acute patient, presents a challenge to the bedside care providers as the patients are often not able to be orientated to their environment, can become non-compliant and at times confrontational. Recent review of staff knowledge indicated that nursing staff were not aware that delirium is preventable and therefore did not implement preventive strategies. Staff believing delirium may be preventable, were not aware of preventative strategies. Research has reported a multifaceted approach to reduce and manage the incidence of delirium in acute care, but prompt access to this information is difficult.