Delirium in the elderly patient after anesthesia: associated factors

Introduction: Postoperative delirium is defined as an acute confusional state with altered levels of attention and consciousness. It presents for a short period of time with a transient and fluctuating evolution, with long-term outcomes of cognitive dysfunction. It has been observed mostly in extreme age groups and has been associated with factors that increase the risk of occurrence. Objective: To identify any factors associated with the development of postoperative delirium in the elderly following anesthesia. Materials and methods: An analytical cross-section study was conducted in elderly patients receiving anesthesia at a second-level hospital, from November 2016 to November 2017. The confusion assessment method was used based on 4 items for making the diagnosis of delirium. The data obtained were statistically analyzed with measures of central tendency, and the risk probability was estimated. Results: A total of 100 patients aged between 60 and 93 years old were studied, with postoperative delirium present in 18% of the sample. There was a statistically significant association among patients with severe pain, those with a low level of education, and those who did not have a stable partner. Conclusion: It is important to study the postoperative delirium factors to be able to identify the population at higher risk of experiencing postoperative delirium, with a view to reducing the number of long-term complications.