Patients with COVID-19 usually had an extended course of delirium in the intensive care unit (ICU), likely with several contributing factors, suggests a new study.

The researchers also noted that neuropsychological impairment may continue after discharge from the hospital. Investigators assessed the medical records of 148 patients admitted to a Michigan Medicine ICU from March 1 through May 31, 2020. Telephone surveys were then conducted between 1 and 2 months following discharge to evaluate the neuropsychological function. Delirium was noted in 73% of the patients, with median duration of 10 (interquartile range 4–17) days. In the delirium cohort, majority of the delirious patients were female (70%). Delirium was reported to be tied to prolonged hospitalization, increased duration of ICU stay, discharge to skilled care facilities and positive screening for neuropsychological impairment during the months following discharge, stated the authors. The findings are published in BMJ Open… (DG Alerts)