Effect of multicomponent programs for prevention of delirium in surgical patients

Ana I. Padilla-García, School of Medicine Saltillo Unit, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico
Ana C. Cepeda-Nieto, School of Medicine Saltillo Unit, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico
Diego D. De la Peña-Castro, School of Medicine Saltillo Unit, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico

Delirium is a highly prevalent condition among older adults undergoing surgical procedures, often exacerbated by pathophysiological mechanisms related to surgical and anesthetic interventions. It is frequently linked to fatal outcomes, increasing mortality, length of hospital stays, functional dependence, and elevated healthcare costs during hospitalization. Current evidence suggests that non-pharmacological interventions are the only measures that significantly impact delirium incidence. As a result, multicomponent programs based on these interventions have been developed and are employed in guidelines for perioperative elderly patients. This review aims to clarify the impact of implementing non-pharmacological multicomponent programs on the incidence of delirium, mortality, functionality, and costs in perioperative older patients.

Keywords: Elderly. Multicomponent intervention. Delirium. Prevention. Non-pharmacologic.