Effectiveness of haloperidol prophylaxis in critically ill patients with a high risk for delirium: a systematic review of quantitative evidence protocol.

Abstract

REVIEW QUESTION / OBJECTIVE The objective of this review is to identify the effectiveness of haloperidol prophylaxis in critically ill patients with a high risk for delirium. More specifically, the questions are: - Is the prophylactic use of haloperidol effective in preventing delirium? - Is the prophylactic use of haloperidol effective in reducing unplanned/accidental removal of tubes/lines and catheters? - Is the prophylactic use of haloperidol effective in reducing the duration of mechanical ventilation and incidence of re-intubation? - Is the prophylactic use of haloperidol effective in reducing intensive care unit and hospital length-of-stay and re-admissions? INCLUSION CRITERIA Types of participants This review will consider studies that include patients with a predicted high risk for delirium, aged 18 years or over, and in hospital settings (intensive care units only). Exclusion criteria: patients with a history of concurrent antipsychotic medication use. Types of intervention(s)/phenomena of interest This review will consider studies that assess the effectiveness of haloperidol prophylaxis in adult patients in a critical care unit in preventing delirium. Comparator This review will consider studies that compare: - Adult patients in an intensive care unit who are given prophylactic haloperidol versus not given for the prevention of delirium. - Adult patients in an intensive care unit who are given prophylactic haloperidol versus other prophylactic atypical antipsychotic medications. Types of outcomes This review will consider studies that include the following outcome measures: 1) Primary outcome (delirium incidence proportion): Delirium will be assessed through validated instruments which may include, but will not TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS