The assessment tool with the strongest supporting data for delirium detection in older adults is the:

The assessment tool with the strongest supporting data for delirium detection in older adults is the:

• A. Confusion Assessment Method (CAM)
• B. Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE)
• C. Delirium Rating Scale (DRS)
• D. Delirium Superimposed on Dementia Algorithm (DSDA)

Answer: (A)

Delirium screening in older adults is best served by a tool designed for rapid bedside use that has been validated across many patient groups. The Confusion Assessment Method fits this well: it looks for four features—acute onset with fluctuating course, inattention, disorganized thinking, and altered level of consciousness. A delirium diagnosis is made when there is acute onset with fluctuations and inattention plus either disorganized thinking or altered level of consciousness. This structure gives high specificity and solid sensitivity, supported by extensive validation in medical and surgical inpatients, ICUs, and across translations, making it the most well-supported choice for delirium detection in older adults. It’s meant to be quick to administer (roughly 5–10 minutes) and practical for busy clinical settings. By contrast, the MMSE is a general cognitive screen and can miss delirium, especially when dementia confounds attention; the Delirium Rating Scale is more time-consuming and used mainly in research; and the Delirium Superimposed on Dementia Algorithm targets a specific situation rather than broad delirium screening.

Delirium screening in older adults is best served by a tool designed for rapid bedside use that has been validated across many patient groups. The Confusion Assessment Method fits this well: it looks for four features—acute onset with fluctuating course, inattention, disorganized thinking, and altered level of consciousness. A delirium diagnosis is made when there is acute onset with fluctuations and inattention plus either disorganized thinking or altered level of consciousness. This structure gives high specificity and solid sensitivity, supported by extensive validation in medical and surgical inpatients, ICUs, and across translations, making it the most well-supported choice for delirium detection in older adults. It’s meant to be quick to administer (roughly 5–10 minutes) and practical for busy clinical settings. By contrast, the MMSE is a general cognitive screen and can miss delirium, especially when dementia confounds attention; the Delirium Rating Scale is more time-consuming and used mainly in research; and the Delirium Superimposed on Dementia Algorithm targets a specific situation rather than broad delirium screening.