Delirium is most common acute neuropsychiatric disorder affecting patients in general hospitals. Delirium is defined as non-specific organic brain syndrome in which disturbances of consciousness is associated with attention, perception, memory, psychomotor-activation, mood, and sleep-wake cycle disturbances. Delirium occurs more frequently in elderly than in younger clients. Delirium itself is not a disease, but rather a clinical syndrome, which result from an underlying disease. The etiology may be related to the physiological effects of a large number of medical conditions. Accurate identification of underlying causes and risk factors is essential in early-stage diagnosis and treatment. Because of its high morbidity and mortality, delirium prompts urgent treatment and must be recognized by every physician.
Keywords: delirium, morbidity, elderly