Nurses' knowledge of delirium : a survey of theoretical knowing

The aim of this exploratory study was to assess whether nurses from a regional base hospital had sufficient theoretical knowledge to assess and manage delirium in the clinical setting. Delirium is a well-recognised, preventable condition commonly seen in the older person. Numerous assessment tools have been developed to identify delirium in the clinical setting. Yet despite the effectiveness of these tools, many nurses remain unable to accurately detect the delirious patient and instead rely on clinical experience to make a diagnosis of delirium, often inappropriately. A self-administered survey based on a true/false questionnaire was used. In addition, a Likert scale was used to assess nurses' perceived levels of confidence in detecting and managing the delirious patient. A convenience sample of 130 nurses from four acute adult wards at a regional base hospital was provided with a 40-item delirium knowledge questionnaire. The nurses answered an average of 80 percent of questions correctly. Statistical differences, using non-parametric tests, were found mainly between nursing designation and confidence levels; identification of predisposing and precipitating factors; and knowledge of delirium training. Overall, the staff nurse grade performed well, while nurse educators performing poorly. Nurses in this study held substantial theoretical knowledge about delirium. However, anecdotal evidence suggests this empirical knowing is not always transposed into practical application - it would seem nurses know more than they do.