Pediatric Delirium in the Palliative Care Setting

Abstract

Pediatric delirium is an often underrecognized and reversible complication of illness; it is a clinical emergency demanding immediate management. Pediatric delirium requires prompt identification, medical investigation, and treatment of the symptoms and the underlying cause, when possible. Alterations in brain function co-occur with complex medical illness in compromised patients leading to significant negative outcomes. These include higher morbidity and mortality, lengthened hospital stay, and negative psychological sequelae for patients and their families, as well as for clinical caregivers. This chapter highlights the importance of screening, early assessment, treatment, education, and psychological support for patients, families, and clinicians from all disciplines.