Prevention of delirium (requires an interdisciplinary approach)

To view the preventative steps, click each trigger or predisposing factor.
Preventative step

Agitation
Reduce stress to the patient by providing a safe and quiet environment
Disorientation
Provide orientating stimuli (eg, clocks, calendars) that can be seen by the patient. Involve proxies (family, caregivers) and provide information about delirium.
Dehydration
Look for clinical signs of dehydration; inspect oral mucous membranes/tongue with longitudinal furrows, tissue turgor/skin folds
Immobilization
Mobilize as soon as possible
Pain
Ask your patient if he/she has any pain
Visual and hearing impairment
Provide the patient with eye glasses or hearing aids, if needed
Sleep deprivation
Ensure the patient has uninterrupted sleep
Psychoactive drugs
Avoid prescribing psychoactive drugs
Tethers
Avoid use of bladder catheters, IV tubes, etc