Modifiable risk factors for delirium after stroke

After stroke, people are particularly likely to have one or more of the known risk factors for stroke: cognitive impairment, visual impairment, infection, and dehydration.^2-4 This study followed 141 patients after stroke, screening twice daily for post-stroke delirium throughout their treatment period.¹ Out of the total 141 population, 55 patients developed delirium (39%).¹ Several risk factors for post-stroke delirium were identified, as detailed on the slide, including catheterization and infection.¹ The duration of delirium was found to be related to the presence of pain, as well as both catheterization and infection.¹

References:
1. Fleischmann R, Andrasch T, Warwas S, et al. Predictors of post-stroke delirium incidence and duration: results of a prospective observational study using high-frequency delirium screening. Int J Stroke 2023;18 (3): 278–284.

2. Wilson JE, Mart MF, Cunningham C, et al. Delirium. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2020; 6 (1): 90.

3. Makin SD, Wardlaw J. Predicting delirium after a stroke. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2014; 85 (4): 357.

4. Inouye SK, Charpentier PA. Precipitating factors for delirium in hospitalized elderly persons. Predictive model and interrelationship with baseline vulnerability. JAMA 1996; 275 (11): 852–857.