The incidence of delirium in the elderly after surgery and risk factors

Abstract

Abstract Background Delirium is a sudden, fluctuating, and usually curable disorder of mental function that is characterized by an inability to pay attention, disorientation, an inability to think clearly, and fluctuations in the level of alertness (consciousness). Recognition and treatment of delirium are critical because postoperative delirium is associated with outcomes including functional deterioration, longer hospitalizations, increased Costs, and high mortality rates. Research Materials and Methods A retrospective cohort study (COHORT) was conducted On a random group of elderly patients after surgery from December 2023 to April. A paper questionnaire was conducted and patients visiting the General Surgery Department in Damascus Hospital were followed up during the period of conducting the research. Accordingly, the questionnaire was filled out and the data was reviewed under the supervision of the research supervisor. The final sample size was 70 participants Results The sample included 70 patients, of which 6 were excluded, leaving us with 64 cases on which research and statistics were conducted. 57.8% were females and 42.2% were males. Participants are classified into three groups, with the age group (70 – 79) years representing the majority 71.8% (mean 76 years). 65.6% of patients did not suffer from delirium after surgery and Inability to pay attention was the most common Symptoms, these symptoms appeared during the first week at 54.5%. regarding the treatment of delirium, 90.9% of patients were treated by treating the cause, and according to the outcome of the delirium, 36.4% have completely recovered. Conclusion It is necessary to hold medical seminars on delirium and explain the difference between its types, as well as publish awareness campaigns on the necessity of educating medical staff, especially students, doctors, and nurses, about the psychological consequences of surgery and ways to deal with them.