A series of resources which provide an introductory overview of delirium.
Delirium is the onset of sudden confusion. Characteristic features include difficulty concentrating, disorientation, difficulty with understanding or memory and personality changes (becoming more irritable or more withdrawn). The condition can be distressing for the patient and their loved ones.
The causes of delirium are multifactorial and it is a sign of an underlying physical illness. The links below provide additional information on what to be aware of where delirium is suspected or confirmed.
- Delirium – Nature Reviews Disease Primers (2020)
A recent review of delirium with broad scope, including the biologic basis of delirium.
- 4AT - Rapid clinical test for delirium – Alasdair McLullich.
The 4AT is a validated method of screening patients to detect delirium. This website for the 4AT gives extensive information on application of the 4AT and references to validation studies.
- World Delirium Awareness Day (WDAD) YouTube channel (2021)
YouTube channel with lots of high quality talks about delirium.
- Delirium awareness video – Creative Connection (2016)
Nice video about delirium that runs through the basics of presentation, diagnosis and treatment.
- Delirium – Royal College of Psychiatrists (2019)
Website article with information about delirium aimed at patients and families/friends.
- Delirium: prevention, diagnosis and management - NICE (2010)
NICE guideline on delirium, published in 2010 with an update in 2020.
- Risk reduction and management of delirium - SIGN (2019)
SIGN guideline on delirium.
Useful organisations
- Scottish Delirium Association
- European Delirium Association
- American Delirium Society
