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Delirium Clinical Pathway, CICU, PICU, and PCU – Preventive Measures

Delirium Clinical Pathway — CICU, PICU, and PCU

Preventive Measures

Many of the contributing factors to delirium can be managed or improved by prevention and treatment strategies. These strategies are often nursing driven and may include the following:

Daily Routines
and Schedules
  • Cluster care at night
  • Sleep hygiene
    • Schedule uninterrupted 5-6 hrs of nighttime sleep and age-appropriate daytime nap
  • Doors closed with lights, TV, and music off while asleep
  • Control light and noise in room
Orientation Re-orient to time and place with each interaction
Promote Familiar Environment
  • Provide favorite toys, photos from home
  • Identify consistent caregivers, promote parental involvement
  • Use needed adaptive equipment and/or communication aids
    • e.g., glasses, hearing aids
Medical Intervention
  • Minimize/avoid use of restraints
  • Daily review of need for tubes/lines
  • Encourage early mobilization as appropriate
  • Consult child life, PT/OT, music therapy

Reference

Pediatric Delirium: Monitoring and Management in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit  

 

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