delirium screening tools

Delirium screening tools are simple questionnaires or checklists used by healthcare providers to quickly identify signs of delirium, an abrupt change in mental clarity and awareness. These tools assess mental functions like attention, awareness, and thinking speed, helping to detect early symptoms in patients who may be confused, disoriented, or overly sleepy. Effective screening allows for timely diagnosis and treatment, improving patient outcomes. Common tools include the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) and the 4AT, which are easy to administer and interpret, ensuring vulnerable individuals are promptly evaluated and cared for.