Prevalence and risk factors of delirium of older adults after cardiac surgery at the intensive care unit: A retrospective study

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify the prevalence and risk factors of delirium of older adults after cardiac surgery at the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: A retrospective descriptive correlational study design was used. Among 675 older adults who admitted to ICU after cardiac surgery in a tertiary hospital from May 2021 to April 2022, 528 were selected for data analysis. Data were collected through electronic medical records. Delirium and pain intensity were evaluated using the Confusion Assessment Method-Intensive Care Unit and Critical Care Non-verbal Pain Scale, respectively. Results: The incidence rate of delirium was 41.3% (n=218). Multivariate logistic regression analysis of the variables identified that ICU length of stay (odds ratio [OR]=1.77, p<.001), anesthesia time (OR=1.21, p=.016), pain intensity (OR=1.14, p=.044), and age (OR=1.07, p=.002) were identified as risk factors of delirium after cardiac surgery. Conclusion: ICU length of stay, anesthesia time, pain score, and advanced age should be considered as the prevention and management of delirium at the intensive care unit of older adults after cardiac surgery.