Nursing Interventions in Acute Confusional Syndrome in the Elderly: A Bibliographic Review.

Authors

  • Juan Polo Moreno Enfermero Residente R2 Enfermería Geriátrica y Gerontológica

Keywords:

Nurses, Geriatric Nursing, Nursing Care, Delirium, Neurocognitive Disorders, Aged

Abstract

Background:
Galicia has an aging index of 218.09% in 2023, making it the second most aged autonomous community in Spain. Delirium or acute confusional syndrome is one of the most prevalent yet least recognized mental alterations in hospitalized elderly patients, leading to severe consequences such as increased mortality, functional dependency, and prolonged hospital stays. Early detection and proper management are crucial to improving prognosis.

Objective:
To describe the role of nursing in managing agitated elderly patients and identify preventive measures and useful tools for intervention.

Methodology:
A bibliographic review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, CUIDEN, CINAHL, LILACS, and Cochrane, employing MeSH and DeCS terms. Studies published between 2010 and 2024 focusing on hospitalized patients in acute care units were selected.

Results:
Nine articles were selected, including systematic reviews, cohort studies, and monographic articles. Programs such as HELP and EWE were identified, as well as tools for delirium detection (CAM, 4AT, NuDESC). Nursing interventions include prevention through hydration, early mobilization, and orientation, as well as management with psychological support and treatment of underlying causes.

Conclusion:
Delirium prevention and management require tools adapted to the hospital setting and specific training for nursing staff. The implementation of programs such as HELP has proven to reduce hospital stays and improve clinical outcomes, highlighting the essential role of nursing in elderly patient care.

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References

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Coyle MA, Burns P, Traynor V. Is it My Job? The Role of RNs in the Assessment and Identifi cation of Delirium in Hospitalized Older Adults. J Gerontol Nurs. abril de 2017;43(4):29-37.

Hasemann W, Tolson D, Godwin J, Spirig R, Frei IA, Kressig RW. Nurses’ Recognition of Hospitalized Older Patients With Delirium and Cognitive Impairment Using the Delirium Observation Screening Scale: A Prospective Comparison Study. J Gerontol Nurs. diciembre de 2018;44(12):35-43.

Published

2025-08-26

How to Cite

Polo Moreno, J. (2025). Nursing Interventions in Acute Confusional Syndrome in the Elderly: A Bibliographic Review. Revista Enfermeir@s, 2(43), 51–65. Retrieved from https://www.enfermerialugo.org/revista/index.php/enfermeiraos/article/view/71