Delirium: a new appraisal of an old problem

Delirium is a prevalent condition associated with high morbidity and mortality. Studies investigating delirium date back centuries but the subject has received increased attention in the last two decades. This recent attention focuses on, risk factors, early recognition, consequences and management of delirium. The aim of this paper was to provide an updated review of issues concerning the assessment and identification of delirium. Assessment is central to the effective management but delirium continues to be under-recognized by the healthcare team. This review sets the scene for the following papers on practice and the future direction for the management of delirium.