CENTRAL PHILIPPINE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF NURSING
The First Nursing School In The Philippines
Jaro, Iloilo City, Iloilo
S.Y. 2023-2024

Delirium in ICU
By: Princess Aliha M. Jimenez BSN 4D

1. What is delirium and how it affects the treatment plan in the ICU?
Delirium is a rapid-onset, serious alteration in mental function that leads to confused
thinking and a diminished awareness of one's surroundings. This condition can occur within
hours or days and is commonly observed in half of intensive care unit (ICU) patients.
Delirium often intensifies during the evening and night. Contributing factors include pain,
certain medications, lack of oxygen, and mechanical ventilation. Symptoms may manifest as
patient absence, agitation, anger, or anxiety. Additionally, approximately one out of five ICU
patients with delirium experiences hallucinations. Recognizing and addressing these
contributing factors is crucial for managing and preventing delirium in the ICU setting.

2. What would be the role of the family in preventing delirium of patient in the ICU?
The family plays a crucial role in preventing delirium in ICU patients through various
supportive measures. These include providing comfort by explaining the patient's
surroundings and the reason for their presence in the ICU. Using aids such as glasses and
hearing aids enhances the patient's sensory experience. Employing visual aids like pictures,
speaking quietly, and reading to the patient contribute to a calming environment. It is
important for family members to be observant and report any unusual behavior to the
nursing staff promptly. Showing a consistent presence, asking for support when needed,
and maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals contribute to a
supportive and preventive approach against delirium in ICU patients.

3. As an ICU nurse, what would be your role in caring a patient with delirium?
As an ICU nurse caring for a patient with delirium, the role involves a comprehensive
approach to ensure patient well-being. This includes regular assessments for both pain and
delirium, with a focus on minimizing the use of mechanical ventilation and prescribed
medications whenever possible. To assess orientation, employing visual aids such as
images, objects, and gestures is essential.

Establishing a consistent day and night rhythm, along with early mobilization
exercises, contributes to the patient's overall well-being. Special attention should be given
to medications addressing serious agitation, anxiety, and hallucinations. Ensuring patient
safety is a priority, involving measures like keeping side rails up and maintaining a secure
environment. The nurse's role is critical in creating a supportive and structured care plan to
manage and alleviate delirium in the ICU setting.
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Delirium. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved [insert the date you accessed the
information], from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/deliriu
m/symptoms-causes/syc-20371386#:~:text=Overview,to%20one%20or%
20more%20factors.