In CAM-ICU, a score of 5 or higher indicates what?

In CAM-ICU, a score of 5 or higher indicates what?

• A. Delirium is present
• B. No delirium
• C. Needs more education
• D. Severe coma

Answer: (A)

CAM-ICU screens for delirium in ICU patients, including those who are intubated or nonverbal. It evaluates acute change or fluctuating course, inattention, and at least one of disorganized thinking or altered level of consciousness. When the score reaches five or higher, it signifies that delirium is present. This reflects a positive delirium assessment rather than absence, and it flags the need for appropriate management and further evaluation. The options about no delirium, needing more education, or severe coma don’t fit because CAM-ICU is specifically designed to detect delirium, not determine educational needs or classify coma depth.

CAM-ICU screens for delirium in ICU patients, including those who are intubated or nonverbal. It evaluates acute change or fluctuating course, inattention, and at least one of disorganized thinking or altered level of consciousness. When the score reaches five or higher, it signifies that delirium is present. This reflects a positive delirium assessment rather than absence, and it flags the need for appropriate management and further evaluation. The options about no delirium, needing more education, or severe coma don’t fit because CAM-ICU is specifically designed to detect delirium, not determine educational needs or classify coma depth.