Abstract
Delirium is an acute condition which may lead to a significant functional impairment or even death. It is associated with many negative outcomes such as increased lengths of stay, decreased survival and increased cognitive dysfunction.
Delirium is defined as a disturbance of consciousness with inattention accompanied by a change in cognition, emotion or perceptual disturbance, sometimes with psychotic symptoms. Although it can be a transient and reversible syndrome, its occurrence in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients may be associated with long-term cognitives function.
The etiology and pathophysiology of delirium in critically ill patients is multifactorial and remains poorly understood. For appropriate management of delirium, early identification and risk factor assessment are key factors.
Preventative strategies include nonpharmacological and pharmacological approaches. A combination of both practices is often used in clinical practice.