Sepsis-Associated Delirium: A Narrative Review

Overview

Journal J Clin Med

Specialty General Medicine

Date 2023 Feb 25

PMID 36835809

Authors

Rina Tokuda

Kensuke Nakamura

Yudai Takatani

Chie Tanaka

Yutaka Kondo

Hiroyuki Ohbe

Hiroshi Kamijo

Kosuke Otake

Atsuo Nakamura

Hiroyasu Ishikura

Yu Kawazoe

J-Stad Japan Sepsis Treatment And Diagnosis Study Group

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Delirium is characterized by an acutely altered mental status accompanied by reductions in cognitive function and attention. Delirium in septic patients, termed sepsis-associated delirium (SAD), differs in several specific aspects from the other types of delirium that are typically encountered in intensive care units. Since sepsis and delirium are both closely associated with increased morbidity and mortality, it is important to not only prevent but also promptly diagnose and treat SAD. We herein reviewed the etiology, pathogenesis, risk factors, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of SAD, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related delirium. Delirium by itself not only worsens long-term prognosis, but it is also regarded as an important factor affecting the outcome of post-intensive care syndrome. In COVID-19 patients, the difficulties associated with adequately implementing the ABCDEF bundle (Assess, prevent, and manage pain; Both spontaneous awakening and breathing trials: Choice of analgesia and sedation; Delirium assess, prevent, and manage; Early mobility and exercise; Family engagement/empowerment) and the need for social isolation are issues that require the development of conventional care for SAD.

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