Detecting Delirium in Hospitalized Elderly Patients: A Review of Practice Compliance

Background: The Ontario Senior Friendly Hospital Strategy recognizes delirium prevention and management as a top priority and recommends implementation of delirium screening as well as management protocols. This strategy proposes that hospitals monitor 2 specific indicators: (1) rate of baseline delirium screening and (2) rate of hospital-acquired delirium. Objective: To (1) determine compliance with the Ontario Senior Friendly Hospital Strategy indicators; (2) describe the use of pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions for management of delirious patients; and (3) identify predictors of screening compliance. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients aged ≥65 years admitted to 4 different inpatient units for ≥48 hours. Data were extracted for 7 two-month time blocks chosen between September 2010 and October 2013, following the implementation of various geriatric and delirium related initiatives at the hospital. Results: A total of 786 patients met study inclusion criteria. Over...