The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network: risk reduction and management of delirium

• DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afz036
• Publication Date: 2019-03-18T12:39:51Z
• Authors: Daniel Davis; Samuel D Searle; Alex Tsui
• Keywords: Guideline

Clinical and research interest in delirium has been rising over the last 15 years. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) publication on is a state-of-the-art synthesis of field, first UK guideline since 2010. There new guidance around detection, particularly recommending 4 'A's Test (4AT). 4AT advantage being brief, embeds operationalises cognitive testing, scalable with little training. guidelines highlight importance non-pharmacological management for all hospital presentations involving spectrum disorders (delirium, dementia but at risk delirium, superimposed dementia). Pharmacotherapy minimal role, specific indications (e.g. intractable distress) are discussed. Advances research, education policy, have come together steady changes sociocultural context which healthcare systems look after older people impairment. However, there remains gap between desired actual clinical practice, one might be bridged by re-engaging compassionate, patient-centred care. In this respect, these SIGN offer key resource.