Assessing and managing delirium in terminally ill adults in the community

Delirium is a complex and serious neuropsychiatric syndrome that causes an acute disturbance in attention, awareness and cognition. It is common among people with a terminal illness, especially as the end of life approaches. Delirium can cause distressing symptoms, significant carer burden, acute hospital admission and increased mortality. Identifying delirium early is important because it increases the person's chance of recovery and enables better management in line with their preferences. This article discusses how to assess and manage delirium in terminally ill people cared for in community settings. It also highlights resources that may be of value to community nurses who play a key role in palliative care.