Delirium in the Intensive Care Unit: A Practical Guide for Nurses

Delirium is a common yet frequently underrecognized complication of critical illness. It represents an acute form of brain dysfunction associated with increased morbidity, mortality, prolonged length of stay, higher healthcare costs, and long-term cognitive impairment following ICU discharge. Because bedside nurses maintain continuous patient contact, they play a pivotal role in early recognition, risk reduction, and implementation of evidence-based delirium prevention strategies.

This course is an evidence-based continuing education course designed for nurses and healthcare professionals caring for adult patients in the intensive care unit. Delirium is a common and serious complication of critical illness, representing acute brain dysfunction that is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, prolonged length of stay, and long-term cognitive impairment.

This course provides a comprehensive review of ICU delirium, including current understanding of risk factors, medication-related contributors, prevention strategies, and validated assessment tools. Emphasis is placed on non-pharmacologic, nurse-driven interventions, analgesia-first sedation practices, early mobility, sleep promotion, and bundled approaches such as the ABCDEF bundle. Participants will also explore the nurse’s role in delirium identification, interdisciplinary communication, and ongoing reassessment throughout the ICU stay.

Through case-based application and practical bedside guidance, learners will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to recognize delirium early, reduce modifiable risk factors, and support improved short- and long-term patient outcomes.

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