The management of delirium in the older adult in advanced nursing practice.

Delirium is a term used to describe an array of symptoms that indicate a disruption in cerebral metabolism, a condition that is often under-recognised, leading to delayed interventions. The condition is a common cause of older adults presenting in hospital, with significant morbidity and mortality associated with increased length of stay. A case study is used to illustrate the use of a diagnostic algorithm for older adults presenting with delirium to an advanced nurse practitioner (ANP)-led service.