Eastern Health strengthens delirium prevention for older patients 

Eastern Health is participating in the Improving Care of the Older Person at Risk of Delirium (ICORD) collaborative improvement project with Safer Care Victoria. 

The project is being delivered across Eastern Health Box Hill, Maroondah and Wantirna, with a focus on reducing hospital-acquired delirium through evidence-based prevention strategies, early identification and improved care processes. 

Delirium is a sudden change in the way a person thinks or behaves. It is often a symptom of a serious illness and can develop quickly increasing the risk of medical complications. 

New resources, including orientation clocks, cognitive engagement activities, eating aids and sound amplification devices, are supporting clinicians to enhance patient orientation, comfort and engagement to help reduce the occurrence of delirium. 

This initiative reflects Eastern Health’s continued commitment to delivering safer, person-centred care and improving outcomes for older people in our community.