Delirium in ICU

Prevention & Management

What is Delirium?

The word “delirium” is used to describe a sudden state of confusion. Delirium is common and about 2 out of 3 patients in ICUs develop delirium. Unlike dementia, delirium may be temporary and reversible.

People with delirium:

• Cannot think clearly and may be confused

• Have trouble focusing

• Have a hard time understanding what is going on around them

• May be restless and agitated or sleepy and lethargic

• May see or hear things that are not there, these things seem very real to them

People at Higher Risk of Delirium

People with:

• Dementia

• Advanced age

• Recent surgical intervention

• Prolonged bedrest

• Certain high-risk medicines

• Poor eyesight or hearing

• Sleep disturbances

• Infection or sepsis

• Organ failure

How You Can Help Your Loved Ones

1. Encourage them to participate in therapy and sitting out of bed

3. Provide orientation, talk about current affairs, family and friends

5. Bring familiar items to the ward (e.g. photos, radio, handphone)

2. Bring their glasses, hearing aids

4. Encourage proper lighting during daytime

6. Encourage and engage them in activities during the daytime to promote better sleep at night

Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group in the north of Singapore. It comprises Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Yishun Community Hospital and community extensions such as Admiralty Medical Centre and Wellness Kampung. Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg