The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) is a diagnostic tool specifically designed for the identification of delirium in both clinical and research settings. It is primarily used in older adults, particularly those in hospital or long-term care facilities. The CAM provides a simple and reliable way to detect delirium quickly, using a four-step process that assesses the patient's mental status, attention, cognition, and level of consciousness. The clinical utility of this calculator is to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of delirium, which can help initiate appropriate management and improve patient outcomes. The CAM should not be used in patients who are comatose or those with pre-existing cognitive impairments like dementia, as it may not accurately distinguish between these conditions and delirium.

Confusion Assessment Method (CAM)

# Description:
The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) is a diagnostic tool specifically designed for the identification of delirium in both clinical and research settings. It is primarily used in older adults, particularly those in hospital or long-term care facilities. The CAM provides a simple and reliable way to detect delirium quickly, using a four-step process that assesses the patient's mental status, attention, cognition, and level of consciousness. The clinical utility of this calculator is to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of delirium, which can help initiate appropriate management and improve patient outcomes. The CAM should not be used in patients who are comatose or those with pre-existing cognitive impairments like dementia, as it may not accurately distinguish between these conditions and delirium.
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# Inputs:
A. Presence of inattention
B. Acute onset/fluctuating course
C. Disorganized thinking
D. Altered level of consciousness
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# Scoring:
- If (A and B) and (C or D), then Delirium is present
- If true, then Delirium is not present)