CAM-ICU Calculator
The CAM-ICU is used to diagnose delirium in the intensive care unit. The following criteria are used:
Your CAM-ICU Score is:
Developed by MA Apps. Zone.
A score of 4 or more indicates delirium. Delirium is a sudden change in a person's mental function, which can disrupt their ability to concentrate, think, remember, and sleep. It can also cause fluctuations in their level of consciousness. Delirium can occur as a result of aging, alcohol withdrawal, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions. Symptoms of delirium include: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking coherently Difficulty concentrating Hallucinations Changes in sleep patterns Changes in mood or personality Inattention Disorganized thinking Altered level of consciousness Disorientation Memory impairment Perceptual disturbances Psychomotor agitation or retardation Medical professionals do not know the exact cause of delirium. However, inflammation of the brain, imbalances in neurotransmitters, and chronic stress may all play a role in the onset of symptoms. Causes of delirium can include: Infections, such as pneumonia and urinary tract infections Imbalances in acetylcholine or dopamine Having a serious illness or more than one illness Having an infection Older age Surgery Taking medicines that affect the mind or behavior Taking high doses of pain medicines, such as opioids Delirium can often be traced to one or more factors. Factors may include a severe or long illness or an imbalance in the body, such as low sodium. The disorder also may be caused by certain medicines, infection, surgery, or alcohol or drug use or withdrawal. Delirium is often preventable, but most preventive measures are things only clinical personnel should do. However, family, friends, and loved ones can play a very important role in reducing the risk of delirium. Treatment of delirium focuses on the causes and symptoms of delirium. The first step is to identify the cause. Often, treating the cause will lead to a full recovery. The recovery may take some time - weeks or sometimes even months. In the meantime, there may be treatments to manage the symptoms, such as: Controlling the environment, which includes making sure that the room is quiet and well-lit, having clocks or calendars in view, and having family members around Treating the conditions that caused delirium, such as infections or dehydration Medications to manage symptoms, such as anxiety or agitation Helping people with mobility and activity or removing tethers can help delirium get better Monitoring and adjusting medications can also help improve delirium while you undergo treatment for the underlying causes It is important to seek medical attention if you or a loved one experiences symptoms of delirium.
