Intensive Care Unit Delirium in Critically Ill Adults: Evidence-Based Approaches to Prevention and Management.

Authors

Emily Ahrens, Pratik P Pandharipande, Makayla L Cordoza

Published in

Critical care nursing clinics of North America. Volume 38. Issue 4. Pages 561-578. Epub Aug 25, 2026.

Abstract

Intensive care unit (ICU) delirium affects up to 80% of critically ill adults and is associated with increased mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and long-term cognitive decline. Despite strong evidence supporting strategies for delirium management, adherence to best practices is inconsistent, and traditional practices often override their implementation. This clinical review highlights opportunities for deimplementation of outdated practices and adoption of evidence-based strategies to detect, prevent, and manage ICU delirium. Emphasis is placed on validated screening tools, light sedation practices, sleep promotion, and multicomponent care bundles. Empowering nurses with knowledge, autonomy, and interdisciplinary collaboration is essential to improving delirium-related outcomes.

PMID:
42933953
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 27 Oct 2026.

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