A recent prospective study showed no postoperative delirium in older patients without preexisting dementia undergoing elective total hip or knee arthroplasty using “fast-track” methodology. Which of the following was MOST likely part of the fast-track bundle?
Postoperative delirium (PD) is a complication marked by an acute change in mental status and symptoms that often wax and wane over the course of a day. The etiology of PD is multifactorial, with polypharmacy, infection, and electrolyte imbalance as common contributing factors. Patients with preexisting cognitive impairment and advanced age are at increased risk. Postoperative delirium is associated with prolonged hospital stay and increased morbidity and mortality.
The authors conducted a prospective, multicenter study to evaluate the rate of PD in a cohort of older patients without preexisting dementia (n = 225) undergoing elective total hip or knee arthroplasty using a “fast-track” plan of care. Prior to hospitalization, patients received information about their...
