Psychosomatics
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In addition to diagnostic criteria, delirium research requires standardized instruments to measure symptoms. This article reviews the literature about the Delirium Rating Scale (DRS), the most widely used scale to assess delirium that has been translated into at least seven other languages. The DRS has 10 items and is clinician-rated, but 7- or 8-item subscale adaptations have been used for repeated measurements. ⋯ Tables summarize details from various studies. The DRS is used clinically and in research. It is currently being revised to enhance its use in phenomenologic and treatment research.