Broadening our perspectives on ICU delirium risk factors
-
Correspondence: Yoanna Skrobik skrobik@sympatico.ca
Department of Medicine and Critical Care, Université de Montréal, Hopital Maisonneuve Rosemont, Soins Intensifs; 5415 boul. de l'Assomption, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H1T 2M4
Critical Care 2009, 13:160 doi:10.1186/cc7917
Published: 1 July 2009Abstract
ICU delirium is associated with poor patient outcome. Risk factor stratification is essential to the understanding, prevention and treatment of this disorder. Alcohol consumption, smoking and prior cognitive impairment appear strongly correlated with delirium risk. Several potentially modifiable associations deserve prospective study: these include administration of sedatives and opiates; multiple catheters; as well as minimizing physical restraints and enabling visitors.