[Incidence of delirium in a geriatric ward of a university hospital].

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of delirium based on the CAM scale in a geriatric ward in a university hospital. This paper describes the numbers of predisposing and precipitating factors are compared with the development of delirium. Finally, we present a discussion about treatment and prophylaxis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Over a period of eight weeks, all newly admitted patients were interviewed and scored with CAM. The numbers of predisposing and precipitating factors were registered. Finally, the treatment was focused upon.

RESULTS

270 patients were admitted, 222 patients were interviewed and 48 patients were excluded. The prevalence of delirium was 7%. We were unable to find a correlation between risk factors or precipitating factors and delirium for this population.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of 7% is a satisfying result. There is a discrepancy between diagnosing delirium with CAM and the doctors' routine. All patients must be considered as high-risk patients. Treatment has not been completely standardised.