Grant: Master's Award: Canada Graduate Scholarships

Delirium is an abnormal state of consciousness that often occurs when a patient is critically ill. Significant behavioural changes can be seen when a patient is delirious, including the inability to focus, confusion, emotional changes, and hallucinations. What is surprising is that delirium frequently affects those who aren’t admitted for neurological issues, with up to 80% of patients developing this disorder in the intensive care unit (ICU). These patients experience longer ICU stays, depression and higher mortality rates. It was recently discovered that delirium’s consequences can be long-term, lasting even after a patient leaves the hospital, with cognitive disturbances as severe as moderate traumatic brain injury. There is currently no cure for delirium and the underlying cause is unknown, but new research suggests that it is caused by the lack of oxygenated blood delivered to the brain. Without the critical oxygen that it needs, patients may develop delirium and long-term cognitive impairments. To validate this model 500 ICU patients from across Canada will be recruited, measuring the amount of oxygenated blood that is delivered to the brain. Statistical modelling will be used to determine whether low brain oxygenation can be used to predict delirium and cognitive impairments. Overall, the primary goal of this work is aimed towards discovering the underlying cause of delirium. With this knowledge, we will be able to provide effective treatment, not only in the ICU but to all patients affected by delirium. This is especially important as treating delirium can significantly improve outcomes and ensure a full recovery to resume a healthy life.