The Effect of Olanzapine Administration on the Delirium Status of Patients Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Background: Olanzapine is a drug effective in reducing delirium and is used in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and acute restlessness in psychotic or bipolar patients. Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the effect of olanzapine administration on the delirium status of patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: This retrospective study involved extracting information from the files of patients hospitalized in the internal ICU Department of Ilam city. Researchers obtained the necessary information by visiting the hospital and reviewing medical records. Initially, a list of all patients prescribed olanzapine and other drugs used for the treatment of delirium was obtained from the hospital’s information technology unit. Subsequently, data related to the patients’ files were extracted, and the effect of olanzapine on delirium recovery and its complications were compared. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 16, employing descriptive and analytical statistical methods. Results: The findings indicated that most patients prescribed olanzapine were female (64.2%), admitted from other hospitals (37.3%), and hospitalized due to general medical conditions (47.8%). Additionally, in the group prescribed olanzapine, the majority of patients (85.1%) underwent whole monitoring. Conclusions: Given the effect of olanzapine on delirium improvement and its relatively low side effects compared to other drugs, it is recommended that this medication be prescribed for patients with delirium.