On Wednesday, 11th March it's World Delirium Day.

Delirium in patients can be seen as sudden confusion or a change in thinking. It is common in hospital, especially in older adults. One in four patients over 65 will develop delirium.

Signs of delirium may include:

• New confusion
• Difficulty paying attention
• Drowsy or very restless
• Changes to appetite and sleep patterns
• Symptoms that fluctuate

Delirium is preventable and treatable.

All patients over the age of 65 must have a delirium screening assessment completed on EPR within 72 hours of hospital admission. The assessment can be found under assessment and fluid balance on the patient's notes.

Patients with a history of delirium or a new onset confusion must also have a screening assessment completed.

Please contact the Enhanced Care Team for support to make assessments part of routine care: enhancedcare@cht.nhs.uk or 01484 355819