Determining Risk Factors for Delirium Among Elderly Patients in The Emergency Care Settings

Authors : Esra Kabadayı Sahın, Serkan Şahin

Pages : 101-106

Doi:10.38175/phnx.1290770

View : 142 | Download : 253

Publication Date : 2023-07-01

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objective: Delirium is reported as a common clinical state among elderly patients seeking care in the emergency departments (ED). However, it is commonly underdiagnosed in the ED. This study aimed to evaluate delirium prevalence and determine the risk factors for developing delirium in elderly patients in ED. Material and Methods: The study included 238 patients who were ≥65 years old and visited the emergency department (ED). The emergency specialist used the ‘Confusion assessment method (CAM)’ to screen for delirium in the patient group. A psychiatrist then evaluated the patients according to DSM-5 criteria for delirium. Demographic data, vital signs, and laboratory findings of the patients were also recorded as part of the study. Results: Delirium was identified in 10.9% of the patients through CAM and 11.8% of the patients according to DSM-5 criteria. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups with and without delirium in terms of age, gender, comorbidities, presence of dementia, and use of polypharmacy. A positive correlation between mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) (r=0.373, p 99 mmHg and respiratory rate>19/min are associated risk factors for delirium. Conclusion: High MABP and respiratory rate could be related to delirium risk. Although the hemodynamic risk factors could contribute to the recognition of delirium, practical clinical screening tools are still the most important and reliable methods to detect delirium.
Keywords : deliryum, acil servis, yaşlı, ilişkili faktörler