Sedation and Delirium in Intensive Care

Abstract

To the Editor: We agree with Reade and Finfer (Jan. 30 issue)1 that prevention of delirium in patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) is clearly preferable to treatment after the fact. Reduction or prevention of sleep deprivation may be an additional measure to reduce the risk of delirium in the ICU.2 Noise, light, and other factors may be associated with poor sleep quality. A reduction in these factors and promotion of positive sleep-hygiene behaviors are associated with a reduction in the incidence of delirium or coma.3 Because most sedatives degrade sleep architecture, their use may actually increase the risk . . .