Assessment of prevalence and risk factors of delirium in kidney disease patients undergoing renal dialysis: A prospective observational study

Context: Studies have shown that delirium is common in intensive care unit settings, postsurgery, and in elderly. There are various predisposing risk factors for same. There is evidence of delirium occurring after dialysis. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and risk factor of delirium in kidney disease (both acute and chronic) patients undergoing dialysis. Settings and Design: A 1-year prospective observational study in a tertiary care hospital. Subjects and Methods: The study included admitted patients of kidney disease (acute and chronic) requiring dialysis, aged 18 years or more. All patients who were already in delirium before dialysis were excluded. Mental status examination was done, and Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) scale was applied on the included patients to make a diagnosis of delirium. Statistical Analysis Used: For risk factors, sociodemographic data, past history of delirium, number of dialysis received, and blood investigations were collected. P value for all parameters was calculated using Chi-square, Fisher's exact, and unpaired t-test. Results: The prevalence of delirium was 20% after dialysis. Risk factors identified were past history of delirium, >3 dialysis received, the presence of hypertension, increased urea, creatinine, hemoglobin, white blood cells levels, and increased LFT's (significant P value). Conclusions: The prevalence of delirium in dialysis group patients is high. There are multiple risk factors for same and can be predicted and taken care of to reduce the long-term consequences of delirium.