International psychogeriatrics
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Characteristics of instruments developed by nurses for use in evaluating delirium/acute confusional states include relative emphasis on observable behavior and the need to impose low respondent burden. Two instruments that have been most used by nurse researchers are described: The Confusion Rating Scale and the NEECHAM Confusion Scale. The former is based on observable behavior; the latter incorporates vital function and oxygen saturation measurements that may serve as early warning signs of impending delirium.
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This prospective study determined the incidence and prevalence of delirium in 235 consecutive subjects over age 70 admitted to a general medicine hospital service. The DSM-III criteria for delirium were operationalized. ⋯ Analysis of these data indicates that the DSM-III criteria describe a discrete, recognizable syndrome. However, some of the symptoms are more specific than others in identifying the syndrome in this population.
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Comparative Study
The concept of delirium in German-speaking psychiatry.