A Pilot Study to Test the Feasibility of a Nonpharmacologic Intervention for the Prevention of Delirium in the Medical Intensive Care Unit

Purpose/Objectives: The aims of this study were to determine the feasibility of and test a multicomponent, nonpharmacologic, nurse-driven intervention for prevention of delirium. Design: This was a prospective, cohort pilot study. Setting: This study was carried out in a 12-bed medical intensive care unit in a Magnet-designated community hospital in a major metropolitan city in the Southwest United States. Sample: A convenience sample of consented patients meeting inclusion criteria was included in this study. Methods: A multicomponent prevention protocol consisting of sedation cessation, sleep-wake cycles, sensory stimulation, mobility, and music was tested. Findings: Capturing data for the interventions was problematic. Insufficient documentation systems and inadequate multidisciplinary participation in carrying out the protocol, especially mobility, were barriers. Conclusions: There was little difference in the proportion of delirium before and after intervention. Success in the identification and prevention of delirium requires a multidisciplinary approach. Implications: Further research is needed using a larger sample size. Refinement of a mobility program is needed.