EP.TU.380Compliance with delirium guidelines in older surgical patients and susceptibility to improvement

Aim Delirium in older hospitalised adults is both common and serious, particularly following surgery. It is associated with increased mortality, prolonged admission and greater care needs. All patients ≥ 65 years should have a delirium assessment within 24 hours of admission, and again post-operatively. Where delirium is identified, a thorough assessment of reversible causes should be undertaken using validated tools. Despite clear guidelines, delirium remains under-recognised and inconsistently managed. A study was undertaken to determine compliance with delirium assessment and management guidelines for older surgical patients in one acute hospital, and their susceptibility to improvement. Methods A QI project was undertaken using the PDSA cycle. 50 patient records were reviewed retrospectively. Multidisciplinary educational sessions were delivered. A further 50 patient records were audited after 1 month. Primary outcome: delirium assessment (4AT) within 24 hours of admission. Secondary outcome: TIME bundle completed where delirium identified. Results Conclusion Delirium assessment and identification is improved through the use of a standard tool (4AT) and targeted educational sessions. As a common post-operative complication, delirium assessment is an important aspect of routine post-operative care. Further work is needed to improve compliance with use of the TIME bundle when delirium is present.