Delirium and Its Association with Short- and Long-Term Health Outcomes in Medically Admitted Patients: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Background: Delirium is highly prevalent among elderly hospitalized patients in various healthcare settings. This study aimed to assess the impact of delirium on short- and long-term health outcomes. Methods: A prospective cohort included medically ill patients (≥65 years) admitted to a tertiary healthcare facility. Delirium was screened using the 3-Minute Diagnostic confusion assessment method (3D-CAM). Results: During hospitalization, 53.8% (n = 153/284) had delirium. Patients with delirium had a longer length of hospital stay (LOS) (7 vs. 5 days; p p p = 0.03), pressure injuries (p = 0.01), and upper gastrointestinal bleeding (p p p p p p < 0.01, respectively. Conclusions: Delirium is associated with serious short-term and long-term clinical consequences. Early recognition, prevention, and targeted interventions addressing reversible risk factors are crucial. Further research is warranted to explore effective strategies for delirium management in general medical wards.

Keywords

• delirium
• elderly
• inpatient
• mortality
• survival