Abstract WMP57: Systematic Reduction of Neurochecks Overnight Decreases Length of Stay and Post-Stroke Delirium

Abstract

Introduction: Post-stroke delirium is common and leads to worse short- and long-term outcomes with higher 28-day modified Rankin Score (mRS), longer length of hospitalization, and increased odds of discharge to a nursing home, development of dementia, and death. Circadian rhythm disturbances have been implicated as a core mechanism in the pathogenesis of delirium as well as a common sequela of stroke. Standard of care for acute stroke patients is to receive q1h-q4h neuro checks overnight to ensure stability and these are typically continued throughout hospitalization; however, there is limited evidence to support extended use and frequent checks have been implicated in increased delirium rate. Our pilot study addresses this problem by proactively holding neuro checks overnight on clinically stable patients with the goal of promoting re-institution of circadian rhythm as a delirium prevention measure. Methods: After at least 24 hours of hospitalization, patients who were felt to be clinically stable had neuro checks discontinued overnight between the hours of 8pm and 4am and efforts were made to bundle care around these times. If patients were felt not to be stable enough to reduce neuro checks, neuro checks were continued at the frequency typical of the usual standard of care. Patients were reassessed daily to determine if they were stable for neuro check decrease. The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) was performed each shift with a positive result indicative of delirium. Results: 290 patients over 12 months were included in the analysis (157 pre-intervention, 133 post-intervention). Demographic data did not differ significantly between groups. After the intervention was initiated, CAM positivity decreased from 34% to 23% (p=0.017). LOS decreased from 6.6 days to 5.1 days (p=0.024). mRS and NIHSS during hospitalization did not significantly change (NIHSS p=0.97, mRS p=0.38). Conclusions: After the introduction of the intervention, delirium rate and length of stay decreased significantly. In conclusion, holding neuro checks overnight for clinically stable patients may decrease delirium rate and length of stay, but require more systematic study.