Improving Delirium Detection for Older Adults in Hospitals

READI-SET-GO: Researching Efficient Approaches to Delirium Identification - Sustaining Effective Translation to create Gero-friendly Organizations

['FUNDING_R01'] · PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE · NIH-11105921

This work helps hospitals better identify delirium in older patients, especially those with memory problems, to improve their care.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorPENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (UNIVERSITY PARK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11105921 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

We are working to make it easier and faster for doctors and nurses to spot delirium in older adults when they are in the hospital. Our approach uses a quick, two-step screening tool called the Ultra-brief CAM (UB-CAM), which combines a very short initial check with a more detailed diagnostic tool. This tool is designed to be used by various healthcare staff, including physicians, nurses, and nursing assistants, often with the help of a mobile app. By catching delirium earlier, we hope to prevent serious complications and improve recovery for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this type of research are older adults, particularly those aged 80 and over, who are hospitalized and may be at risk for or experiencing delirium, including those with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Younger individuals or those not at risk for delirium would not directly benefit from this specific research focus.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of delirium, potentially reducing complications like falls and improving long-term health outcomes for older hospitalized patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous work on the Ultra-brief CAM (UB-CAM) has shown promising results in accurately identifying delirium in hospitalized older adults.

Where this research is happening

UNIVERSITY PARK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.