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

Chapter 5: Delirium Research Questions: Assessment of Delirium
        

Diagnostic Criteria And Assessment Tools

There are many instruments and methods that may be used to detect, diagnose and measure delirium. Most clinical research studies on delirium will require the investigators to choose diagnostic criteria to facilitate patient selection for the study and assessment tools to allow the clinical course to be outlined.

Question 5.1

Which is the preferred type of instrument for assessment of delirium?

Selection AInstruments that can be administered and rated by a minimally-trained observer
Selection BInstruments that require administration and rating by a more highly-trained observer

Observer Skill

In general, diagnostic instruments for assessing delirium can be divided into two broad categories.

Those that can be administered and rated by a minimally-trained observer, such as

  • cognitive impairment screening tests and
  • psychomotor skill tests.

Those that require administration and rating by a more highly-trained observer, such as

  • delirium diagnostic instruments and
  • delirium numerical rating scales.

The main drawback of tests that can be administered by a minimally trained observer is their lack of specificity for the diagnosis of delirium.

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