Delirium assessment in the medical-surgical population: A quality improvement project

Abstract

<p class="APA"><strong>Background: </strong>Delirium is a complex syndrome that can affect many patients resulting in adverse outcomes. The use of a delirium assessment tool assists in the identification of delirium. The aim of this project was to determine whether delirium education and the use of a validated assessment tool can assist in the early identification of delirium.</p> <p class="APA"><strong>Methods: </strong>The Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice was utilized for this project. This model involves the identification of a problem and the application of evidence based research. The collaboration of the organization and an interdisciplinary team is required to implement and sustain change.</p> <p class="APA"><strong>Interventions:</strong> The intervention implemented included educating the staff regarding delirium and the implementation of a delirium assessment tool. Ongoing mentoring of the staff was required.</p> <p class="APA"><strong>Data Collection: </strong>All patients admitted to the unit that meet inclusion criteria will be included in the project. Retrospective chart reviews were conducted weekly to determine the results of the delirium assessment and nursing compliance.</p> <p class="APA"><strong>Results: </strong>The delirium assessment was completed on 67 out of 76 patients. Delirium was identified in 36 patients. These results were found to be statistically significant.</p> <p class="APA"><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The aim of the project was to determine if education and the use of a validated assessment tool would assist nurses in identifying delirium. The early identification of delirium will assist the healthcare team in implementing strategies to mitigate the adverse outcomes of delirium.</p>