ACEP Now - By Karounos M and Bove J - August 30, 2016
"Delirium is an acute fluctuating disturbance of consciousness accompanied by inattention and changes in cognitive function. Although its exact pathophysiology is poorly understood, delirium in the elderly has been associated with lengthy hospital stays, increased mortality, and substantial economic burden.
Unfortunately, emergency departments continue to do a poor job in recognizing this disease state despite its high prevalence in elderly patients who are admitted—close to 16 percent.2 Health care costs associated with delirium are well over $38 billion annually and may be as high as $150 billion.3 Despite increasing research in the field, delirium is still missed by emergency physicians up to 83 percent of the time.4,5 The good news is there are several areas where physicians can improve in not only the diagnosis but also in prevention..."