Complications of delirium are widely known and can contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. However, delirium is under-recognized and undetected in 30% to 75% of cases. Further, studies have shown that nurses have inadequate knowledge of delirium risk factors and consequences and that some nurses believe delirium screening is unnecessary.

Blevins and colleagues tested the effectiveness of an educational intervention on nurses’ knowledge of delirium and delirium risk factors. The intervention included a video, didactic instruction, case study analyses, and bedside screening instruction with return demonstration. They found the following:

Although further research on various instructional methods is needed to determine the best strategies, the authors recommend ongoing education to maintain accurate screening.

See Article, pp 270–278

Items that are often touched in the hospital setting may contain microbes that contribute to nosocomial infections. Most surfaces can be effectively disinfected following standards set by the manufacturer. However, items with complex,...

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