![[ Visit Client Website ]](images/banner.gif)
Learning Objective 1: The learner will understand the impact of the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) screening tool regarding recognition and treatment of delirium among hospitalized patients.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to identify three domains of successful leadership development.
Implementing a standard of practice requires leadership and collaboration among inter-professional disciplines. Three learning domains were facilitated in implementing a standard of practice for patients with hospital acquired delirium: individual leadership development, advancing nursing practice, and expanding scope of influence.
Delirium is a serious medical condition that is under-diagnosed and under-recognized by healthcare professionals. The geriatric population is at high risk for developing delirium, and with the aging population, it will become more of a reality. The effects of delirium can be devastating; therefore, prompt recognition and treatment are essential.
Method
The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) screening tool was implemented as a standard of practice on two medical-surgical units. The nurses were required to screen every adult patient, every 12 hours. If a patient screened positive for delirium, the nurse was expected to initiate the delirium protocol, delirium plan of care, pharmacy consult, case management/social services consult, notify the physician, and educate the patient and family.
Pending Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, data will be collected monthly, to monitor for compliance and evaluate patient outcomes.
Results
Expected outcomes include, but are not limited to: an increased number of delirium diagnoses, decreased length of stay, decreased cost, improved cognition and/or return to baseline, discharge disposition as expected (based on patient condition prior to delirium episode), and preserved or improved functional level.
Conclusion
Expanding nursing practice in the geriatric environment through effective leadership can impact the care of patients through collaboration with inter-professional disciplines.
Providing evidence-based care to hospitalized patients requires healthcare professionals to promptly recognize and effectively treat patients who suffer from delirium. Implementing the CAM as a standard of practice for delirium screening among adult patients is highly recommended in the literature.
More research is needed to determine precise interventions for the care of patients with delirium.
See more of: Invited Posters