The UCSF Delirium Reduction Program is a hospital-wide multicomponent delirium care pathway that has been associated with a reduction in length of stay and odds of 30-day readmissions, as well as the use of safety attendants (publication in progress).

This website summarizes the care pathways for all adult inpatients with or at risk for delirium at UCSF and is a resource for interdisciplinary staff to optimize delirium care based on best available evidence.

Overview

Delirium indicates acute brain dysfunction and must be taken seriously to minimize its duration and impact. ~25% of hospitalized patients are affected by delirium. 

There are 3 types of delirium that present differently based on psychomotor activity:

Hyperactive | Delusions, hallucinations, fidgety, restless, agitated, pulling at lines/tubes, hard to redirect

Hypoactive | Withdrawn, apathetic, lethargic, excessive daytime sleepiness, slow response time

Mixed | Features of both hypoactive and hyperactive delirium

One of the hallmark signs of delirium is that the presentation fluctuates. Meaning, from hour to hour or day to day, behavior and level of consciousness may vary widely.