For Patients
You should be assessed for delirium (confused thinking and reduced awareness) while you’re in the emergency department and twice a day while you’re in the hospital, after any move to a new setting, and if there is a change in your medical status.
For Clinicians
Screen your hip fracture patient for delirium during their initial assessment and prior to the administration of pain medication and surgery. Perform subsequent delirium screenings at least once every 12 hours while the patient is in hospital, after transitions between settings, and upon any change in medical status. It is important to attempt to prevent delirium by orienting your patient to person, place, and time (involving family, caregivers, and friends when possible); creating an environment that provides context (e.g., with a window or clock) and contains familiar items, such as pictures or personal belongings; ensuring that patients are using their glasses or hearing aids as appropriate; speaking to patients in a calm, reassuring voice; and considering alternatives to or the more judicious use of drugs associated with delirium.
For Health Services
Ensure that your facility has validated delirium assessment tools and a policy or protocol in place for preventing and managing delirium.