Key Finding: 94.3% of patients at GSV hospitals were screened for delirium, compared to 52.5% at non-GSV hospitals.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons on June 10, 2026, compared postoperative delirium screening rates and outcomes among older adults at hospitals with and without ACS Geriatric Surgery Verification (GSV) Program accreditation.
Screening and Detection
- Screening Rates: 94.3% of patients at GSV hospitals were screened for delirium, compared to 52.5% at non-GSV hospitals.
- Positivity Rates: Among screened patients, positive delirium screens occurred at similar rates: 11.3% at GSV hospitals and 12.5% at non-GSV hospitals. Hospitals with the lowest screening rates reported very high positivity rates.
Impact on Outcomes
Among screened patients, those at GSV hospitals had shorter hospital stays and fewer prolonged hospitalizations. However, for patients who screened positive, outcomes such as length of stay and readmission were similar across hospital types.
Background
Delirium is a complication characterized by acute confusion, disorientation, or altered consciousness. The ACS GSV Program implements standards to address the specific needs of older surgical patients. Previous studies associated GSV accreditation with improved outcomes, including reduced postoperative mortality and complications.
Expert Insight
Study lead author Dr. Sarah Remer commented that the variation in screening rates indicates many delirium cases may go undetected, particularly hypoactive delirium, which presents as withdrawal or lethargy. She noted that routine screening enables early recognition and intervention.
Recommendations for Prevention and Management
Dr. Remer suggested practical steps to help prevent and manage delirium:
- Return glasses and hearing aids to patients soon after surgery.
- Keep a clock and calendar visible.
- Maintain bright rooms during the day and darkness at night.
- Encourage daytime engagement through conversations about familiar topics.
Study Details
The study was published as an article in press on the JACS website. Co-authors include Caroline Smolkin, Ronnie Rosenthal, Clifford Y. Ko, and Marcia M. Russell. Funding support was provided by The John A. Hartford Foundation.