In elderly patients, what tool helps assess delirium risk on admission?

• A. Delirium assessment tools such as the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) or delirium risk screening.
• B. Blood pressure measurement.
• C. Vision test only.
• D. Sleep pattern only.

Answer: (A)

Screening for delirium risk on admission is best done with validated delirium assessment tools. These tools guide clinicians to detect an acute change in mental status with inattention and either disorganized thinking or altered level of consciousness, which are hallmark features of delirium. The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) is a widely used instrument that quickly walks through these symptoms, and other validated options like brief screens such as 4AT or the CAM-S serve the same purpose. Using such a tool on admission allows early identification of patients who are delirium-positive or at high risk, enabling preventive steps right away—adequate hydration and nutrition, pain control, minimizing deliriogenic medications, ensuring sleep and orientation, and promoting early mobilization. In contrast, single measures like checking blood pressure, or focusing only on a vision test or sleep pattern, don’t reliably identify delirium risk on admission and can miss the early signs.