Category Strategy N* (%)
Mentation Provide hearing amplifier, hearing aid batteries
Provide reading glasses, glasses repair kit
Cognitive games (crossword puzzle, reading materials,
playing cards, word search, coloring tools, crayons/coloring pencils)
Clock/calendar in room
Instruct family about delirium and remind them to bring hearing aid, reading glasses
Allow uninterrupted sleep
8 (57%)
7 (50%)
5 (36%)

2 (14%)
1 (7%)
1 (7%)
Mobility Assess mobility and mobilize patient during each shift
Designate technician as “ambulator” to walk with geriatric patients
Chair at bedside
Remove tethers when possible (Foley, IV tubing, monitor cables)
4 (29%)
1 (7%)
1 (7%)
1 (7%)
Medication Avoid high-risk medications (benzodiazepines, opioids,
anticholingergic, antipsychotics)
Perform medication reconciliation
2 (14%)

1 (7%)
Matters Most Encourage visitation
Have volunteer at bedside for company
4 (29%)
1 (7%)
Comfort Warming items (blanket, hat, mittens)
Move boarding observation/admitted patients to low
stimulation environment (single-person room with doors)
Ear plugs
Aromatherapy
Lighting
Music
Face/sleep mask
2 (14%)
2 (14%)

2 (14%)
1 (7%)
1 (7%)
1 (7%)
1 (7%)
Normalizing Function Ensure hydration
Provide regular meals
Toileting protocol and care team communication regarding
toileting status and assistance needed
Bathing, brushing teeth
8 (57%)
8 (57%)
6 (43%)

1 (7%)
Safety Distraction tools to mitigate agitation
Move patient closer to nurses’ station for monitoring
Sitter at bedside for fall prevention
4 (29%)
2 (14%)
1 (7%)