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Delirium Research Sections
Author Bio
Currently selected section: Introduction
Definition And Clinical Features
Patient Population
Consent For Participation
Assessment for Delirium
Clinical Characteristics And Etiology
Management of Delirium
Other Study Implications
Conclusion
Chapter 5: Delirium Research Questions: Introduction
        

Challenges in Delirium Research

Issues such as the severity of the illness, the presence of co-existing factors, polypharmacy and other logistical problems inhibit delirium research. Figure 1b outlines specific methodological factors that make delirium research difficult. Retrospective studies of delirium are generally unsatisfactory for many reasons; in particular, retrospective detection of delirium has been shown to be very inaccurate (Johnson et al., 1992).

Figure 1b: Specific Methodological issues related to delirium research

Trial design: prospective studies needed, retrospective identification of delirium is poor. Terminology: confusion regarding terminology used in different studies, e.g., delirium, cognitive impairment, acute confusional state, organic brain syndrome. Diagnostic criteria: lack of a uniform diagnostic classification of delirium, different prevalence depending on diagnostic criteria used (Liptzin et al, 1991). Severity rating: Lack of uniform rating system for severity of delirium. Subtypes of delirium: are etiologies, implications and prognosis of agitated, hypoactive, and mixed types of delirium the same?link

In this chapter we look at areas requiring consideration when designing studies on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, etiology, management, and/or outcomes of delirium. Click on any of the sections below to learn more:

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