Prevention and treatment of intensive care unit delirium

: Delirium is a common problem in intensive care patients, frequently underdiagnosed and resulting in prolonged hospital stay and a high risk of morbidity and mortality. On the other hand, reversibility of the condition points to the importance of prevention, early diagnosis and immediate therapy. Management strategy is directed to nonpharmacological interventions as preventive measures and pharmacological treatment, which includes typical and atypical neuroleptics. Delirium management includes haloperidol as the first line medication, but also olanzapine and risperidone as atypical neuroleptics. Benzodiazepines are used in delirium caused by alcohol withdrawal.