Translation, retranslation and validation of the Dutch Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit

Delirium is a common problem in hospital settings, and the prevalence of delirium varies among different hospital inpatient populations (42–87%). As in other patient populations, early detection of delirium in the ICU is a necessary first step for successful treatment and prevention. The Dutch Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU) is a rapid and easily administrated screening instrument to detect delirium and is based on the DSM-IV. The aim of this study was to translate, retranslate and validate the CAM-ICU for use in Dutch ICU settings.