Delirium Point Prevalence Studies in Inpatient Settings: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

To examine the delirium point prevalence studies conducted in different inpatient settings and to discuss the implication of the findings for delirium screening, assessment, prevention, and management.Delirium-a common and distressing condition manifesting as an acute decline of attention and cognition-is frequently overlooked, misdiagnosed or treated inappropriately. This neuropsychiatric syndrome manifests as changes in attention, cognition, and awareness, with resultant impact on behavior, function, and emotions. Delirium is recognized as a patient management challenge in the inpatient setting and there is a need to understand the current point prevalence and assessment practices of delirium.A systematic review and meta-analysis METHODS: A systematic review of published delirium prevalence studies in inpatient settings was conducted and the implications of findings for delirium screening, assessment, prevention, and management identified. The random-effects meta-analysis was conducted among studies measuring delirium point prevalence. The PRISMA statement was used to report systematic review and meta-analysis.Nine studies were included in the review, with sample sizes ranging from 47 to 1867. Delirium point prevalence ranged from 9% to 32%. Hypoactive delirium was the most common subtype, ranging from 23% to 78%. Fifteen delirium screening tools or assessment or diagnostic methods were used. Comorbid dementia was present in up to 50% of inpatients.Gaining a consensus on effective delirium instruments, the time windows for assessment and measurement will be crucial in driving benchmarking and quality improvement studies.Consistent identification of high-risk patients and treatment settings with elevated risk, accompanied by the implementation of effective preventive and management strategies, are critical to addressing delirium- a frequent and burdensome condition, that adversely affects patient outcomes.