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- Title
Delirium in the ICU: Is Dexmedetomidine Effective?
- Authors
Ungarian, Joelle; Rankin, James; Then, Karen
- Abstract
Purpose/goals: Review the incidence and pathophysiology of delirium in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Discuss the research literature in relation to the use of dexmedetomidine in the management of ICU delirium and provide recommendations for ICU registered nurses (RNs). Session description: Despite vigorous efforts to encourage the use of screening tools and adoption of prevention strategies, delirium in the intensive care unit (ICU) continues to affect 30% of patients. The success of the pharmacological treatment of delirium remains equivocal; moreover, there is a paucity of research that supports the use of antipsychotic drugs. However, dexmedetomidine, a selective alpha2 adrenoreceptor agonist, at least appears to have a promising role in the management of delirium. A brief review of delirium will be provided including the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and predisposing factors. The current management, complications, and long-term consequences of delirium are presented. This presentation will provide a critical appraisal of the research findings in relation to the use of dexmedetomidine in ICU management of delirium. The implications for critical care RNs in relation to nursing care and education will be provided. The critical care nurses will be invited to participate in informal audience polling to determine their familiarity and experience with the use of dexmedetomidine. Learning outcomes: 1. Have a comprehensive understanding of the administration, monitoring and discontinuation of dexmedetomidine infusions. 2. Understand the literature on dexmedetomidines use in the management of delirium.
- Subjects
DRUG therapy for psychoses; INTENSIVE care units; PSYCHOLOGY
- Publication
Canadian Journal of Critical Care Nursing, 2017, Vol 28, Issue 2, p48
- ISSN
2368-8653
- Publication type
Article