How a single perioperative delirium case can make the difference

Abstract

This report describes how postoperative delirium in an elderly man during COVID-19 pandemic led to a serious event involving a central venous catheter. Delirium is a common cause of perioperative morbidity and mortality, and is characterised by an alteration in consciousness and perception and a reduced ability to focus, sustain or shift attention. The event was analysed by a multidisciplinary committee which developed a risk stratification delirium protocol in order to prevent similar events in the future.