Pflege
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Delirium is an acute decline in attention and cognition. To make a diagnosis, there are two classification systems: the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). While the core criteria are similar in both systems, ICD-10 requires three additional criteria to make a diagnosis: disturbed psychomotor behaviour and sleep-wake-cycle and emotional disturbances. ⋯ While the DOS is a classical observation instrument, the CAM requires a structured interview, similar to the Mini-Mental State Exam by Folstein. Both the DOS and CAM instruments were scientifically translated into German. This article will present the translated versions of both DOS and CAM, report their use in a Swiss population of patients at risk for delirium and provide the theoretical background of diagnosing delirium with the criteria of the DSM-IV and ICD-10.