Abstract:
Delirium is highly prevalent in the acute hospital setting. It is a significant complication that can accompany any illness and it is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. It can also lead to prolonged hospitalisation and high financial cost. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of relatives and nurses of patients who developed delirium postoperatively. Descriptive qualitative approach was employed to conduct the study, which took place in a large public hospital in Auckland, New Zealand. Data collection involved the use of semi-structured interviews. Participants interviewed were 16, comprising 10 nurses and 6 patient relatives. Data collection spanned a period of 7 months, after which, the general inductive approach was used to analyse participants’ narratives. The study found that there is limited awareness of delirium. It is often misdiagnosed as confusion, depression or dementia. Worse still, it is regarded as normal for old age. Relatives have little information on delirium and some nurses also do not have up-to-date information on delirium. Relatives stated they were confused, stressed and distressed when they saw their loved ones in an unfamiliar situation during the delirium episode. Nurses also opined they were similarly distressed and found it difficult to care for the patient with delirium as they were concerned for the patient’s safety and the safety of other patients within the vicinity of the patient with delirium. The research identifies the need for provision of information on delirium to relatives and continuous education on delirium to nurses as the most important activities that will improve care for patients with delirium and support for caregivers. The study will contribute to the limited amount of literature available on the delirium experiences of relatives and nurses.