Icudelirium May 2026

The CAM-ICU algorithm identifies delirium based on :

This is the hallmark feature of delirium. It is often tested by asking a patient to squeeze the clinician's hand every time they hear a specific letter (usually "A") in a read-out string of letters like "SAVEAHAART". icudelirium

This is the most critical starting point. Clinicians look for a sudden change in mental status from the patient's baseline or evidence that their mental state has fluctuated (e.g., coming and going) over the past 24 hours. The CAM-ICU algorithm identifies delirium based on :

A patient is considered "CAM-ICU positive" (delirious) if they exhibit , plus EITHER Feature 3 OR Feature 4 . Practical "Helpful" Strategies for Families icudelirium

amily Engagement and Empowerment (having loved ones present to reorient the patient).