Researching Efficient Approaches to Delirium Identification-Sustaining Effective Translation to Create Gero Friendly Organizations

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new approach to daily delirium screening in older adults hospitalized in six general medicine and surgery units across three hospitals in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. The study aims to test how well nurses can implement the UB-CAM screening tool in routine care and to assess its impact on patient outcomes, complications like falls and pressure injuries, and medication use related to delirium management. This trial focuses on patients aged 70 and older, including those with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, and involves both patient and care partner participation. The UB-CAM delirium screening tool is integrated into the electronic health record and used by nurses daily during hospital stays. The study uses a stepped-wedge design, introducing UB-CAM screening to one hospital unit every six months over 42 months. Two groups are studied: a patient-oriented group where individuals provide consent and undergo detailed delirium assessments up to three times during their hospital stay, and an administrative group including all older patients admitted to the units, whose data will be analyzed from hospital records. Care partners also participate through interviews and follow-up calls. Participants are assessed for delirium daily during their hospital stay, up to three days or until discharge. They provide demographic information and are contacted one month after discharge to report on their health and care experiences. Care partners complete assessments at discharge and follow-up interviews one month later regarding communication and caregiving burdens. Researchers will measure the accuracy of nurse screenings, patient and caregiver outcomes, and rates of delirium-related complications and management practices. The study continues until 2028, with ongoing monitoring and data collection throughout hospital stays and follow-up periods.

Researching Efficient Approaches to Delirium Identification-Sustaining Effective Translation